There is a lot of talk about gender equality these days, but the importance of women in the technology field is often overlooked. While it is true that many women are making their way in this field, statistics show us that many still face inequalities, such as the wage gap, compared to their male colleagues. In addition, little is said about engineering, which continues to have a considerable gender disparity.
Have you ever wondered how many women in Mexico occupy leadership positions in this sector? Or why not as many decide to get involved in these careers? What is the role of Mexican women in this field and how are they represented?
The role of women in the Information Technology (IT) sector in Mexico has been a key issue in the context of gender equality. Although their participation has increased in recent years, challenges remain. A clear example is that, according to the Mexican Association of the Information Technology Industry (AMITI), only 19% of the positions in this sector in Mexico are occupied by women, despite the fact that they represent more than 50% of the population.
Social and cultural factors, such as gender stereotypes, still influence the educational and professional decisions of many women. From an early age, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers are perceived as more aligned with men, which discourages women from choosing this path. That is why it is essential to make space, inform and motivate the new generations. We are often labelled as sentimental or unstable when we face physiological aspects, which can generate discomfort, especially in male-dominated environments. These types of dynamics can be evident in the experiences of women who work in predominantly male teams, where these stigmas can be felt.
Although some women have reached leadership positions in IT, they are still a minority. Few occupy strategic decision-making roles in technology companies or startups. However, we must not lose sight of young promises, such as Angela Elena Olazarán Laureano, a 17-year-old from Veracruz recognized as “the best student in the world” for creating a virtual medical assistant powered by artificial intelligence. She shows that the environment or the institution does not define success; it is worth noting that she is a proud graduate of CONALEP like me and if there is something remarkable, it is the determination and personal convictions that lead women to great achievements, well, and not just women, anyone.
In Mexico, various organizations have emerged to encourage female participation in IT. Initiatives such as Laboratoria, Tecnolochicas from Fundación Televisa and Generation México, which organizes bootcamps exclusively for girls on occasions, are examples of programs that empower women through technological training, facilitating their entry into the labor market. I had the honor of being an instructor in the first cohort of women from Generation México, an enriching experience full of emotions, learning and sisterhood.
It is essential to mention communities like Technolatinas founded by an extraordinary woman specialized in the metaverse Alix Gallardo, which create support and mentoring networks for women in technology, promoting their professional development. These networks organize events and provide material for their communities of women throughout Latin America. I highlight their recent Programmer's Day event, held on September 8 at the NU Mexico offices. There were inspiring talks, shared experiences, and a solid support network. I had the privilege of being one of the speakers with a technical challenge, sharing the stage with impressive women like Elizabeth Bulas, CEO of Dexty; Dr. Eloísa del Carmen García, research professor at UABC; and Clemir Rondón, a testing enthusiast. I also met Caro Gayosso, an incredible tech recruiter and headhunter, whose energy and knowledge of the sector deeply inspired me. These events are a testament to the power of women in IT, and it is just the beginning of a bright future for us in the world of technology.
Gender diversity in technology teams promotes innovation and offers more inclusive solutions. Companies that have integrated more women into their teams have reported better results in terms of creativity and problem-solving. In addition, we cannot forget the characteristics that Mexican women bring to a work team. Mexican women possess a diversity of qualities that reflect the cultural and social richness of their country. Some common characteristics include:
Resilience: Mexican women are resilient and have faced and continue to face challenges both socially and economically, which has forged an ability to adapt and move forward in the face of adversity.
Hard work: Historically, women have played a key role in both family and work life. Many Mexican women have been and are the economic pillar of their households, whether in the fields, in factories, or in specialized professions. We are workers.
Solidarity: We must not forget the solidarity that we have, it is a very marked characteristic. The support networks between Mexican women, both in urban and rural contexts, are strong, which is reflected in feminist movements and in the formation of sorority communities.
Rich culture: The Mexican woman is the bearer of a vast cultural legacy, which can range from indigenous traditions to the fusion of European influences. Her identity often reflects a mix of modernity and ancestral traditions. Rest assured that even this within a work team can save you from poor performance, we are wise.
Sense of family: For many Mexican women, family plays a central role in their lives. Caring for children and respecting elders are deeply rooted values, although this dynamic has changed with the new generations who seek a better balance between personal and professional life. Rest assured that leading a home helps you develop superpowers.
Are empoweredIn recent decades, Mexican women have gained increasing ground in various political, business, academic and social spheres. Why should this be any different in the technological field? Feminist movements, legislative changes and greater access to education have allowed more women to take on leadership roles.
Are creative and entrepreneurial Many Mexican women have found in entrepreneurship a way to get ahead. Whether in the creation of small businesses or in technological and artistic innovations, their creativity has been a key factor in the economic and social development of the country.
Today, Mexican women play multiple roles: mothers, professionals, students, and activists. This versatility is an asset in everyday life and in the work environment. We are undoubtedly “Full-Stack.” Even though women in IT in Mexico face a salary gap of 18% less than men in similar positions, the path to equality in this sector is promising.
Mexican women in IT not only bring technical skills, but also carry with them deep cultural values: resilience, solidarity, and a commitment to hard work and family. These qualities not only enrich technology teams, but also foster innovation and offer inclusive solutions.
Despite the challenges, with the right support, more Mexican women will be able to take on leadership roles, close the wage gap, and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse sector. Mexican women are ready to be leaders in technology, and it's time for all of us to recognize and support their potential.
The future of IT and STEM depends on diversity, and Mexican women have a fundamental role in building that future.
Mutual support will be key to achieving this.
To close, I would like to mention some women who inspire me, who are engineers or work in the IT field and who have created better opportunities for many of us:
Aline Guzman, for her incredible work enabling a gender perspective in the technological field.
Andrea Uribe, for its constant concern to create healthy and diverse work environments.
Sara Hernandez, for his outstanding work in the area of artificial intelligence.
Lilian Aguirre, for keeping the flame alive in so many girls, motivating them not to give up on their dreams.
Paola Mireles, for his great humanity towards women in the technology sector.
Marina Pardo, for being one of the strongest, most professional and inspiring women I know teaching leadership.
Tania Belén Gayosso, Luisa Fernanda Ramos, and Mariana Valladolid, for her resilience and her unconditional support of other women in this field.
Rocio Bautista, for his work in aviation, both in Mexico and Canada.
Maria del Rocio Estrada Monroy, for her excellent work in creating a coding school for women, ensuring that it was carried out with an appropriate gender perspective.
Last but not least, to my dear teachers Severina Salgado and Angelina Sosa, who inspired me to enter this field, teaching me to be an entrepreneur and, above all, to love electronics and telecommunications.
Without further ado, I can only advise you: look around you and you will see how many Mexican women in these areas can become your friends, your source of inspiration or, simply, your personal superheroes.