Why don't more women make careers in the technology field? That is the question that NPR recently asked in its All Tech Considered blog. This is a question that's important to business owners, as well. There simply aren't enough women working in the IT departments of small businesses.
The numbers
In making its case, NPR cites a study from the National Center for Women and Information Technology that says that women constitute just 6 percent of the chief executives at the top 100 technology companies. NPR also points to a New York Times story determining that only 8 percent of venture-backed tech startups are founded by women.
Not getting better?
The future doesn't look any better with regards to women in technology. According to the NPR story, there's also a lack of women gravitating to high-school and elementary-school technology and science. The numbers are clear. What isn't apparent is why women are shunning the world of tech.
Meritocracy?
Some have argued that success in tech is merit-based: People with smarts, good ideas and strong work ethics tend to rise to the top, they say, no matter their gender. The NPR story, though, claims that it's not always true. Studies have found instances of gender- and race-based bias in the technology fields, according to NRP. This story should inspire all business owners to take a second look at their own companies. Are there women in their own IT departments?