With the diversification of thought, ideas, and passion comes remarkable innovation. While we have come a long way as a society in regards to women in the workforce, and especially women in technology, there is still much to be done.
So, what can be done to address the stigmas and disparities that exist? And, what strides have been made to bring us to a more healthy balance of diversity in the workforce?
In this “Back @ IT” episode, I’m joined by Gayle Keller of “Gayle Keller LLC” and podcaster on “Theodora Speaks“. Her passion is in “motivating others, and [inspiring] working women to reinvent themselves in order to have balance and fulfillment in their careers. Her methodology empowers women to take calculated risks and to pursue their most cherished career aspirations.”
Highlights:
01:40: Gayle outlines her expertise and the goal of her podcast, Theodora Speaks. This is a podcast series that celebrates risk-taking women in tech and STEM and have successfully “failed forward” and told the trials and tribulations of their lives.
In the valleys is where we have our lessons learned…and how we …better ourselves to go in the next thing.
04:31: Gender inclusion in the workforce is Gayle’s passion. She is helping women’s groups and universities understand how to promote themselves in the workforce.
07:58: There are more girls interested in STEM and STEAM classes, but there is a long way to go. Some STEM camps or LEGO camps are only seeing low single-digit attendance for girls.
09:42: Out of the pandemic, Gayle saw about 2.5 million women leave the workforce. So, how do we get them back? And, how do we attract them?
14:20: It’s important for kids to have tech and STEAM role models early in life. Later, it’s important to have mentors and business coaches that continue this role model mentality.
17:17: Gayle outlines how she works better with men than with women, and the reasons behind that.
Women only make up 25% of the workforce in STEM. And only 18% are leaders. I encourage everyone to think about gender inclusion at the corporate level.
21:26: It’s vital that we maintain women in tech because of family demands or if they become moms. Their thought leadership can be a loss if women are not considered important to the organization. How can this be addressed?
