Tecknuovo’s Lori Bailey on inspiring inclusion for women in tech

This year’s International Women’s Day theme of ‘inspire inclusion’ highlights the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality, calling for challenging stereotypes and recognising the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life.

We spoke to Tecknuovo associate, software engineer Lori Bailey, about what this theme means to her as a woman in the tech industry.

What does the theme ‘inspire inclusion’ mean to you?

For me, it means using the advantages I have to elevate and support other women. I’m white, educated, able-bodied, financially secure. The risks for me are relatively low if I speak out against sexism or policies that I think will have a negative impact on women. It’s my job to advocate for people when I have the opportunity or speak out against negative behaviour when I see it.

Why do you think inclusion is so important in the tech sector?

Changing careers at 40 to become a software developer was the best decision I have ever made. It’s such a fun and interesting job. It’s also the most lucrative decision I’ve ever made. Perhaps that sounds shallow, but it’s been a revelation to me that I can be both financially secure while doing something that is genuinely just a lot of fun. I want more women to have that experience.

How do you think the tech sector can foster more inclusion for women in 2024 and beyond?

I think companies need to think about what they mean when they talk about their values and culture. If you say you have good values, that should be reflected in your policies around pay transparency, flexible working patterns and progression frameworks, for instance. You won’t foster an inclusive culture by simply being nice and friendly in the office.

Or if you are a recruiter and you tell people that a company has a great culture and then follow up with, ‘we go for drinks every Thursday’, that does not sound like ‘good culture’ to a lot of people. Focusing on alcohol for all your major social events is a behaviour that excludes large groups of people.

What advice would you give to women who want to pursue a career in tech but are scared to make the jump?

My advice for women who want to pursue a career in tech is to accept offers of help and seek out potential mentors. It can be a bit overwhelming to get started, but there lots of people (including myself) who would always be happy to help someone get started.

Are you a woman in tech looking for your next opportunity? We work hard to build teams who represent society as a whole, and fostering women tech talent is a big part of that.

Find out how you could join Lori and our community of associates on our 'Join us’ page.

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