The Shocking Loss of Women Who Code
By Fay Capstick
The tech community has been rocked by the sudden news that the non-profit organisation, Women Who Code, has ceased operating. This week we shall investigate, looking at what Women Who Code offered, why they closed, and the broader implications for the industry.
What was Women Who Code?
Women Who Code was an American-based charity that helped women who want to work or do work in the technology sector. It started in 2011 and in 2013 expanded globally. Initially based in California, it then moved to Georgia.
Women Who Code (WCC) is something we are hugely in support of, as the industry needs to carry on with its efforts to diversify. Even though it was based in America, Women Who Code (WWC) reached 360,000 women in 145 countries. They have held more than 16,000 free events worldwide.
What did Women Who Code do?
They had an online community, where women could support other women in the industry. They also ran networking events, offered mentoring and scholarships, and had a job board that was highly regarded. There were also study groups, hacking events, and leadership development. Their aim was to help women develop the technical skills they would require to successfully work in the industry and become the leaders of tomorrow.
So, what has happened?
Women Who Code has suddenly shut. Their website says that their Board voted to dissolve the organisation. This is due to a lack of funding. In 2022 they operated with a shortfall of $200,000. The Board of Directors statement makes it clear that they considered all options before taking the decision. High profile supporters of the organisation included Capital One, Nike, Yelp, VMware, and Google.
As you will know, the tech industry and wider economy have faced many redundancies this past year, and WWC appears to be a casualty of this change in market conditions.
What is the legacy of WWC?
Large and long-lasting. It has given out £2.8 million in scholarships and held thousands of events worldwide. This will have made a huge impact on the lives of women in the industry.
The reaction on social media has been one of shock and disbelief
What will the impact be?
Huge and long-term. WWC provided networking and career opportunities that women found invaluable in an industry where they still only make up 34% of the workforce.
What do we think?
We are shocked and saddened. The industry still has much work to do with regard to all types of diversity, including gender. We are happy about the impact WWC has made during its 13 years and the lives it has hopefully changed. It would be great if a group emerged when market conditions are better to fill the gap made by this important organisation.
More on women in tech!
Please do take a couple of minutes to catch up with our previous blogs on women and diversity in the IT and tech industry!
Diversity in Tech: How are we Doing?
https://parkershaw.co.uk/blog/diversity-in-tech-how-are-we-doing
The Benefits of Having a Diverse Workforce in the IT Industry
https://parkershaw.co.uk/blog/the-benefits-of-having-a-diverse-workforce-in-the-it-industry
Why Women Don’t Want to Work in the Data Industry
https://parkershaw.co.uk/blog/why-women-dont-want-to-work-in-the-data-industry
Final thoughts
At Parker Shaw we have been at the forefront of the sector we serve, IT & Digital Recruitment and Consulting, for over 30 years. We can advise you on all your hiring needs. If you are looking for your next job in the IT sector please check our Jobs Board for our current live vacancies at https://parkershaw.co.uk/jobs-board.