Girls in tech: 'The industry needs to create a work environment where women feel welcome'

Women accounted for around 15 per cent of the technology sector in Switzerland in 2018. According to the latest WEF Global Gender Gap report, the share of women graduating from STEM programmes in Switzerland reaches only 11.43 per cent. These numbers are lower than most neighbouring countries, and a reason to act. At least for Corinne Ruckstuhl and Lisa Stähli, co-managing directors at Girls in Tech Switzerland.

The Swiss chapter of the global organisation was launched in Geneva, but is now active nationwide. The mission is clear: attract women to the field, and encourage them to stay. By giving them opportunities to share and communicate, they hope to empower them and help fill the gender gap.

Things are changing, Ruckstuhl says. But there is room for improvement.

“It needs to be everybody’s issue, not just a women’s issue. Because diversity can have a great impact on a company.”

Through a network of women, Girls in Tech fosters a community where women feel safe talking about potential difficulties, asking questions but also finding new opportunities.

In this podcast interview, Ruckstuhl and Stähli discuss their passion for tech, the importance of role models, the challenges to overcome and their hopes for a better tomorrow.

Listen to this episode on Soundcloud.

You can find us as well on Spotify.