Showing posts with label Women in Tech. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Women in Tech. Show all posts

Sunday, December 18, 2016

The top 100 Global Women in Tech Communities that should not be missed!




As Chair of CompTIA's Advancing Women in Tech Executive Community, I am proud to work towards a powerful mission:

  • Empower women with resources and information to positively impact their technology careers
  • Inspire women to choose careers in technology
  • Help technology businesses create cultures that support a diverse workforce
Our membership consists of people who support this mission and are currently in, or aspire to be in, technology careers. As a millenial (born in the first year of millenial, last year of Gen X) who has been in tech for the past eleven years, I am disappointed seeing the stagnation and decline of women in our industry. I think now- more than ever it is essential we come together to unite on our shared vision of attracting, retaining, and advancing women/diversity in Technology Careers.

Recently my husband Jay McBain joined our wonderful council and we decided to do some research (credit to him for the idea, vision) to see how many other women in Tech Groups there were out there, and how we can connect and unite forces.

This is the most comprehensive listing of Women in Technology groups found anywhere on the internet.

The research was focused on 8 categories:

1. Professional Organizations
2. Media & Community
3. Empowering Younger Women
4. Regional Groups
5. Coding
6. Education
7. Accelerators / Investors
8. Creative Spaces

Additionally, these Top 100 Women in Technology Organizations can be followed in this Twitter list.

If you are female and thinking about entering the technology field, this is the place to start! Each of these organizations have shown success utilizing innovative methods of encouraging, enabling and empowering women in technology.

Here are the Top 100 Global Women in Technology Organizations:




PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS



IEEE Women In Engineering (WIE)

The mission of IEEE Women In Engineering (WIE) is to facilitate the global inspiration, engagement and advancement of women in technical disciplines. IEEE WIE envisions a vibrant community of IEEE women and men collectively using their diverse talents to innovate for the benefit of humanity.

Contact 1: Takako Hashimoto
Contact 2: Nita Patel
Contact 3: Bozenna Pasik-Duncan

Website: http://www.ieee.org/women
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ieeewomeninengineering/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieeewie

Scope: International
Employees: 5802



United Nations Women

All human development and human rights issues have gender dimensions. UN Women focuses on priority areas that are fundamental to women’s equality, and that can unlock progress across the board.

Contact 1: Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka
Contact 2: Lakshmi Puri
Contact 3: Yannick Glemarec

Website: http://www.unwomen.org/en
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/unwomen
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/UN_Women

Scope: International
Employees: 1573



CompTIA Advancing Women in Technology

The Advancing Women in Technology Community works to: Empower women with resources and information to positively impact their technology careers. Inspire women to choose careers in technology. Help technology businesses create cultures that support a diverse workforce

Contact 1: Michelle Ragusa-McBain
Contact 2: Cristina Greysman
Contact 3: Cathy Alper

Website: https://www.comptia.org/communities/advancing-women-in-it
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/advancingITwomen/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CompTIA_AWIT

Scope: International
Employees: 609



Association for Computing Machinery – Women (ACM-W)

ACM-W supports, celebrates, and advocates internationally for the full engagement of women in all aspects of the computing field, providing a wide range of programs and services to Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) members and working in the larger community to advance the contributions of technical women.

Contact 1: Valerie Barr
Contact 2: Jodi TIms
Contact 3: Yuqing Melanie Wu

Website: http://women.acm.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/11368693644/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ACMwomENcourage

Scope: International
Employees: 286



AAUW

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is the nation’s leading voice promoting equity and education for women and girls. Since our founding in 1881, AAUW members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic, and political

Contact 1: Mark Hopkins
Contact 2: Christy Jones
Contact 3: Cordy Galligan

Website: http://www.aauw.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAUW.National
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aauw

Scope: International
Employees: 263



Educause Women in IT Constituent Group

The Women in IT Constituent Group collects and disseminates effective practices in the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in higher education IT. Through both virtual and face-to-face networking opportunities and by making good use of its affiliation with the National Center for Women & IT, this group provides a venue for addressing a wide range of issues affecting women IT professionals in colleges and universities, including securing high level leadership roles in higher education.

Contact 1: Brenda Spychalla
Contact 2: Bernadette Williams

Website: https://www.educause.edu/discuss/women-in-it-constituent-group
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EDUCAUSE
Twitter: https://twitter.com/educause

Scope: International
Employees: 127



Society for Info Management (SIM) Women

SIM is an association of over 3500 senior IT executives, prominent academicians, selected consultants, and other IT thought leaders built on the foundation of local chapters, who come together to share and enhance their rich intellectual capital for the benefit of its members and their organizations.

Contact 1: Kristen Lamoreau
Contact 2: Deborah Decorrevont
Contact 3: ​​Nanci Schimizzi

Website: http://www.simnet.org/default.asp?page=SIM_Women
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/societyforinformationmanagement/

Scope: North American
Employees: 73



Colorado Technology Association

Founded in 1994, the Colorado Technology Association is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing the technology industry. Their mission is to foster growth and opportunity for the technology industry

Contact 1: Andrea Young
Contact 2: Monica Coughlin
Contact 3: Amy Regnier

Website: http://www.coloradotechnology.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ColoradoTechnologyAssociation
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ColoTechAsn

Scope: Colorado
Employees: 62



Women in Technology International

A network of women working in technology fields who provide support to each other through networking meetups, career services, events, and other offerings.

Contact 1: Carolyn Leighton
Contact 2: David Leighton
Contact 3: Lisa Flom

Website: http://www.witi.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WomeninTech
Twitter: https://twitter.com/witi

Scope: International
Employees: 60



TechWomen

TechWomen empowers, connects and supports the next generation of women leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) from Africa, Central and South Asia, and the Middle East by providing them the access and opportunity needed to advance their careers, pursue their dreams, and inspire women and girls in their communities.

Contact 1: Arezoo Riahi
Contact 2: Jillian Scott
Contact 3: Joanne Liou

Website: http://www.techwomen.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TechWomen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/techwomen

Scope: International
Employees: 56



Women in Technology

A not-for-profit organization that aims to help women advance in technology fields. They provide education in technology and leadership, networking events, mentoring, and awards.

Contact 1: Kathryn Harris
Contact 2: Lisa Dezzutti
Contact 3: Trish Barber

Website: http://www.womenintechnology.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WITWomenDC/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WITWomen

Scope: International
Employees: 53



Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a non-profit educational and service organization that gives women the tools they need to succeed and advance in the field of engineering, and to be recognized for their contributions as engineers and leaders. SWE provides an array of training and development programs, networking opportunities, scholarships, and outreach and advocacy activities that help make engineering a desirable career choice for women.

Contact 1: Jessica Rannow
Contact 2: Jonna Gerken
Contact 3: Karen Horting

Website: http://societyofwomenengineers.swe.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Society-of-Women-Engineers/29752126120
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SWETalk

Scope: International
Employees: 50



National Center for Women & Info Tech (NCWIT)

The National Center for Women & Information Technology is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization chartered in 2004 by the National Science Foundation. NCWIT is a “collective impact” effort, a community of more than 700 prominent corporations, academic institutions, government agencies, and non-profits working to increase girls' and women's participation in technology and computing.

Contact 1: Lucy Sanders
Contact 2: Terry Morreale
Contact 3: Dori Farah

Website: https://www.ncwit.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ncwit
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NCWIT

Scope: National
Employees: 50



Google Women TechMakers

From 2014 to present, Women Techmakers is continually launching global scalable initiatives and piloting new programs to support and empower women in the industry.

Contact 1: Natalie Villalobos

Website: https://www.womentechmakers.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/womentechmakers

Scope: International
Employees: 10



Association for Women in Computing

The Association for Women in Computing is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the advancement of women in computing profession. Our members are a diverse group of professionals in careers that touch every aspect of the computer industry. You’ll discover a camaraderie with our group that you won’t find in other professional organizations.

Contact 1: Cindy Jones
Contact 2: Katie Bedney
Contact 3: Jane Sheedy

Website: http://www.awctc.org/

Scope: Twin Cities
Employees: 10



EdTechWomen

EdTechWomen is a network of educators, technologists, and business experts focused on leadership development for women in education technology. Its mission is to create an inclusive community of women and their supporters from all aspects of the education technology industry in order to build and enhance the leadership capacity of women.

Contact 1: Sehreen Noor Ali
Contact 2: Margaret Roth

Website: http://edtechwomen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edtechwomen/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechwomen

Scope: International
Employees: 7



ITWomen

ITWomen is a non-profit organization with the mission of increasing the number of girls and women in the fields of technology and engineering and to provide professional development, student education and scholarships through a supportive network.

Contact 1: Claire Marrero
Contact 2: Patricia Mundarain

Website: http://www.itwomen.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ITWomen1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/itwomen

Scope: Florida
Employees: 5



BPDA

BDPA is a global member-focused technology organization that delivers programs and services for the professional well-being of its stakeholders. Founded in 1975, BDPA currently has 2400 members and wishes to be a powerful advocate for their stakeholders' interests within the global technology industry.

Contact 1: Earl Pace
Contact 2: Mike Williams
Contact 3: Pamela Mathews

Website: http://www.bdpa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NBDPAConference
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/BDPA

Scope: National
Employees: 3



Women's High Tech Coalition

The Women’s High Tech Coalition (WHTC) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), non-partisan organization that promotes the exchange of ideas among leaders in the public and private sectors whose focus is technology, innovation and the development of public policy related to technology.

Contact 1: Melissa Foxman
Contact 2: Sarah Akbar

Website: http://www.womenshightech.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Womens-High-Tech-Coalition/351307184947133
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WomensHighTech

Scope: National
Employees: 2




MEDIA & COMMUNITY



Internet Society - Shine the Light

Shine The Light is an international campaign that encourages people to boost the profile of incredible women around the world who are pushing boundaries using technology.

Contact 1: Kathryn Brown
Contact 2: Mark Buell
Contact 3: Karen Rose

Website: http://www.internetsociety.org/shinethelight
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/InternetSociety
Twitter: http://twitter.com/internetsociety

Scope: International
Employees: 270



CRN Women of the Channel

Women of the Channel Online celebrates and fosters female leadership across the IT channel year-round, continuing and building on the conversations and ideas sparked at our industry-leading Women of the Channel events. This site provides a forum for sharing perspectives on life and work, recognizing the unique contributions of the women shaping today’s channel, and finding the tools and knowledge to grow and advance both personally and professionally.

Contact 1: Lisa McKenzie
Contact 2: Doris Branscombe
Contact 3: Robert DeMarzo

Website: http://wotc.crn.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/543952052428055/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WOTChannel

Scope: National
Employees: 152



Anita Borg Institute

Organizes conferences for women and awards for influential female leaders. Their goal is to not only help women thrive in technology fields, but make sure technologies are built to help women thrive.

Contact 1: Telle Whitney
Contact 2: James Beck
Contact 3: Elizabeth Ames

Website: http://anitaborg.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/anitaborginstitute
Twitter: http://twitter.com/anitaborg_org

Scope: International
Employees: 124



Girls in Tech

An organization with 60 local chapters around the world that host events. Girls in Tech University brings workshops and resources to female college students pursuing a career in technology, and they also have mentorship programs for grade-school students.

Contact 1: Adriana Gascoigne

Website: http://www.girlsintech.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GirlsInTech
Twitter: https://twitter.com/girlsintech

Scope: International
Employees: 82



ChickTech

We facilitate hands-on technology-centric events to empower, support, and increase the confidence of women and girls. Through our events, we build community, empower participants to see themselves as leaders, and provide networking and mentoring opportunities in the rapidly growing high tech industry.

Contact 1: Janice Levenhagen
Contact 2: Sally Deck
Contact 3: Ashly Alberto

Website: http://chicktech.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChickTech
Twitter: https://twitter.com/chicktechorg

Scope: Portland / San Fran
Employees: 58



Women in Wireless

An organization that promotes female leaders in mobile and digital through events in DC, New York, and San Francisco and spotlights on influential women.

Contact 1: Aurelie Guerrieri
Contact 2: Emily McInerney
Contact 3: Jeni Gridley

Website: http://womeninwireless.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_172175914802
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WomenInWireless

Scope: International
Employees: 56



Scientista Foundation

The Scientista Foundation is a national organization that empowers pre-professional women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) through content, communities, and conferences. Currently the largest network of campus women across STEM disciplines, Scientista serves to connect all communities of women in STEM at campuses across the nation, giving such important organizations more visibility and resources, and building a strong, cohesive network of women in science that can act as one voice.

Contact 1: Julia Tartaglia
Contact 2: Christina Tartaglia
Contact 3: Amanda Applebaum

Website: http://www.scientistafoundation.com/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/scientistafoundation
Twitter: http://twitter.com/scientista_talk

Scope: National
Employees: 32



Baptie Women's Leadership Council

The Women’s Leadership Council is a community of women who join together regularly to learn how to raise the overall success rate of enabling their success and leadership potential. This council share best practices, hear from industry leaders, and form other initiatives that drive successful women in Technology!

Contact 1: Rod Baptie
Contact 2: Lisa Pavy

Website: http://channelfocuscommunity.net/community-groups/viewgroup/3-the-channel-focus-women-s-leadership-council
Twitter: http://twitter.com/cfocuscommunity

Scope: National
Employees: 29



Opportunity@Work

Based at New America in Washington DC, Opportunity@Work is a civic enterprise whose mission is to re-wire the U.S. labor market to enable more Americans to achieve upward mobility in the job market and workplace, to facilitate actions by U.S. employers to develop the talent they collectively need to succeed and grow, and to scale up innovations that unlock more fully all people’s potential for higher-value, meaningful work as a source of economic opportunity and national competitive advantage.

Contact 1: Byron Auguste
Contact 2: Karan Chopra
Contact 3: Tyra Mariani

Website: http://www.opportunityatwork.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opportunityatwork/

Scope: National
Employees: 22



Women 2.0

A media organization highlighting female entrepreneurship. Organizers of Founder Friday meetups and the PITCH conferences in Silicon Valley and New York. Their sister organization in Latin America is Ellas 2.0. See our interview with CEO Shaherose Charania.

Contact 1: Kate Brodock
Contact 2: Elisa Miller-Out
Contact 3: Shaherose Charania

Website: http://www.women2.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Women2/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/women2

Scope: International
Employees: 18



Feminist Approach to Technology (FAT)

For us, a feminist approach to technology is a gendered critique of the design, use and impact of technology, as well as empowering women to participate in its future. We believe that equal participation of women in producing and decision-making regarding technology is important to ensure that widely used technologies do not affect women adversely.

Contact 1: Aakriti Gupta
Contact 2: Anita Sonawane
Contact 3: Ankita Rawat

Website: http://www.fat-net.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fatindia/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fattechy

Scope: India
Employees: 16



#BrainBabe

#brainbabe is a thought leadership platform founded by Deidre Kashou Diamond dedicated to increasing the hiring of women in the Cyber Security and Technology professions, while also supporting those already in the professions with a communication framework that will advance and empower both women and men in the workplace.

Contact 1: Deidra Diamond
Contact 2: Kyle Kennedy
Contact 3: Lisa Kendall

Website: http://www.brainbabe.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cybersnbrainbabe/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/brain_babe

Scope: National
Employees: 16



Lesbians Who Tech

Lesbians Who Tech is a Community of Queer Women in or around tech (and the people who love them).

Contact 1: Leanne Pittsford
Contact 2: Dom Brassey
Contact 3: Brianna Boles

Website: http://lesbianswhotech.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lesbianswhotech/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lesbiantech

Scope: International
Employees: 12



Girl Geek Dinners

A community that holds dinner events for women in STEM and helps them find inspiration and mentorship.

Contact 1: Sarah Lamb

Website: http://girlgeekdinners.com/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/girlgeekdinners
Twitter: http://twitter.com/ggdworldwide

Scope: International
Employees: 11



Wonder Women Tech

Wonder Women Tech (WWT) is a non-profit organization which produces an annual conference and series of educational programming and initiatives that highlights, educates, and celebrates women and diversity in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) innovation and entrepreneurialism. Our conferences and programming offer a variety of speakers, panel discussions, coding classes, community inclusion activities and other dynamic initiatives geared towards empowering women and diverse demographics.

Contact 1: Lisa Mae Brunson
Contact 2: Brianna Machado
Contact 3: Kimberly King

Website: https://wonderwomentech.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wonderwomentech/

Scope: International
Employees: 9



Change Catalyst Tech Inclusion

Change Catalyst empowers diverse, inclusive and sustainable tech innovation – through education, mentorship and funding. Our Tech Inclusion programs explore and develop innovative solutions to tech diversity and inclusion. We partner with the tech community to solve diversity and inclusion together through conferences, career fairs, strategic consulting and training. Our work spans the full tech ecosystem, including: Education, Workplace, Entrepreneurship and Policy.

Contact 1: Melinda Epler
Contact 2: Wayne Sutton
Contact 3: Susan Cooney

Website: http://changecatalyst.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/changecatalysts/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/techinclusionco

Scope: International
Employees: 8



Femgineer

We empower Female Engineers and provide courses and workshops to: educate, encourage professionals in the high-tech industry.

Contact 1: Poornima Vijayashanker
Contact 2: Karen Catlin
Contact 3: Fernando Garrido Vaz

Website: http://femgineer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/femgineer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/femgineer

Scope: International
Employees: 5



STEM for Her

STEM for Her, formerly known as Women in Technology Education Foundation, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation, based in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C. area that promotes education to create awareness, excitement, and opportunities among girls and young women to pursue successful STEM-related careers.

Contact 1: Marian McKee
Contact 2: Marguerete Luter
Contact 3: Nanci Schimizzi

Website: http://www.stemforher.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/STEMforHer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/STEMForHer

Scope: National
Employees: 5



Webgrrls

A global organization with local chapter events, discussion boards, and job listings. Organizers of TechSpeak for Entrepreneurs, a two-day conference in New York to teach entrepreneurs to communicate with and manage their technical employees.

Contact 1: Kevin Kennedy
Contact 2: Nelly Yusupov

Website: http://www.webgrrls.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Webgrrls
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Webgrrls

Scope: International
Employees: 4



Girl Geek Coffees (GGC)

The sole purpose of Girl Geek Coffees (GGC) is to pursue charitable purposes of advancing the interests of minority females in Information Technology and related Science, Engineering & Mathematics fields, particularly at the development stages of student and early career.

Contact 1: Miriam Hochwald
Contact 2: Felicity Cunningham
Contact 3: Mahtab Mirmomeni

Website: https://sites.google.com/site/girlgeekcoffees/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/girlgeekcoffees/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GirlGeekCoffees

Scope: Australia/US
Employees: 3



Channel Partners Women in the Channel (WIC)

Women in the Channel connects female leaders in the telecom and IT channels for the purpose of collaborating to grow our businesses, support each other as women and mentor each other.

Contact 1: Hilary Gadda
Contact 2: Nancy Ridge
Contact 3: Khali Henderson

Website: https://womeninthechannel.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomenInChannel
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/WomenInChannel

Scope: National
Employees: 3



Global Tech Women

We are Global Tech Women. Our mission is to create a global network of inspired, connected and self-actualized women in tech.

Contact 1: Deanna Kosaraju
Contact 2: Jerri Barrett
Contact 3: Lisa C. Kaczmarczyk

Website: http://www.globaltechwomen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globaltechwomen/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlobalTechWomen

Scope: International
Employees: 3



The RAISE Project

Created by the Society for Women’s Health Research, it helps women find and apply for awards and grants in science, technology, engineering, math, and mathematics.

Contact 1: Stephanie Pincus
Contact 2: Donna J. Dean
Contact 3: W. Sue Shafer

Website: http://www.raiseproject.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RaiseProject
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAISEProject

Scope: International
Employees: 3



Tech LadyMafia

Tech LadyMafia supports women who work in and around the internet. We are astrophysicists and developers, writers and digital strategists. We believe in very inclusive definitions of the words “women” and “ladies”. TLM is open is to anyone who identifies as a woman.

Contact 1: Erie Meyer
Contact 2: Aminatou Sow
Contact 3: Merici Vinton

Website: http://techladymafia.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tech-LadyMafia/737099386323386
Twitter: https://twitter.com/techladymafia

Scope: International
Employees: 3



Women Catalysts

Our events and online community are the place to get motivation, resources, and encouragement to make your dreams a reality. Because you can do it, and you don't have to do it alone.

Contact 1: Kim Hunter
Contact 2: Lindsay Jean Thomson
Contact 3: Leo Hunter Thomson

Website: http://www.womencatalysts.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/womencatalysts
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WomenCatalysts

Scope: International
Employees: 3



Blacks in Technology

The Blacks in Technology mission: Deliver the most relevant and beneficial information and network for African Americans in the technology field or pursuing a career in Technology. Focus on creating a community in which African Americans are comfortable, motivated and inspired to pursue careers in Technology.

Contact 1: Greg Greenlee
Contact 2: Jennifer Epperson
Contact 3: Ayori Selassi

Website: http://www.blacksintechnology.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blacksintechnology
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/blkintechnology

Scope: National
Employees: 3



TechWorldsHalf

This is a private group to collaborate on encouraging and keeping half of the total workforce - women - in this amazing industry! Goals: 1. Share best practices to stay in tech. 2. Provide a forum to connect mentors and mentees for women in tech, and connecting them with the right opportunities. 3. Create a group of females in tech who can advocate more programs and services that keep women in the industry.

Contact 1: Janet Schijns
Contact 2: Quinnie Wong
Contact 3: Rokeya Jones/Jo Peterson

Website: https://twitter.com/techworldshalf
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/526726030820867/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/techworldshalf

Scope: International
Employees: 3



She's Geeky

Organizes events with an “unconference” format – attendees create and vote on topics, like Barcamp for women. (It’s unclear if they have future events planned.)

Contact 1: Kaliya Hamli
Contact 2: Trina Finton
Contact 3: Andie May

Website: http://www.shesgeeky.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShesGeeky
Twitter: http://twitter.com/@shesgeeky

Scope: International
Employees: 2



Latinas in Computing

A community created by and for the Latinas in computing with a mission of promoting their representation and success in computing-related fields.

Contact 1: Patty Lopez
Contact 2: Gilda Garreton

Website: http://latinasincomputing.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/latinasincomputing/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LatinasInC

Scope: International
Employees: 2



Chicago Women Developers

Chicago Women Developers is run by a group of women from a variety of backgrounds and technical expertise, who are all passionate about coding and women in technology. They want to provide a place where all questions are OK and where everyone can learn in a supportive environment.

Contact 1: Nicole L.

Website: http://www.meetup.com/WomanDevelopers/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CWDevs

Scope: Chicago
Employees: 1



Tech Savvy Women

Tech Savvy Women is an organization that brings Technology focused Women across various industries and disciplines together to create and foster relationships while enhancing their knowledge of technology.

Contact 1: JJ DiGeronimo

Website: http://www.techsavvywomen.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/techsavvywomen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjdigeronimo

Scope: National
Employees: 1



EMPOWERING YOUNGER WOMEN



Girls Who Code

An 8-week summer class teaching programming to high school girls in New York City. The girls take trips to Google,Facebook,Twitter, and Foursquare and work on a final project that tackles a challenge in their community, like recycling.

Contact 1: Reshma Saujani
Contact 2: Mary Ellen Miller
Contact 3: Deborah Singer

Website: https://girlswhocode.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GirlsWhoCode
Twitter: https://twitter.com/girlswhocode

Scope: International
Employees: 604



npower

Npower is a national nonprofit organization of 23 members providing IT training and services to nonprofits and young adults. Through programs and service, Npower aims to bring the IT community together to do social good.

Contact 1: Bertina Ceccarelli
Contact 2: Shannon Gibbons
Contact 3: Patrick Cohen

Website: http://www.npower.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/NPower/10518342314
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NPowerOrg

Scope: National
Employees: 253



Robogals

Inspire, engage and empower young women into engineering and related fields

Contact 1: Emily Heffernan
Contact 2: Mandy Jor
Contact 3: Julie Boulton

Website: http://www.robogals.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robogals/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/robogals

Scope: International
Employees: 68



Iridescent

A program where high school girls create a prototype for an Android app, write a business plan, and pitch to VCs, while being mentored by women in tech. Created by Iridescent Learning.

Contact 1: Tara Chklovski
Contact 2: Veronica Cavallaro
Contact 3: Wallace Louie

Website: http://iridescentlearning.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImagineInventEngineer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IridescentLA

Scope: International
Employees: 41



Science Club for Girls

SCFG fosters excitement, confidence and literacy in STEM for girls from underrepresented communities by providing free, experiential programs and by maximizing meaningful interactions with women mentors in science, technology, engineering & mathematics

Contact 1: Lonsdale Koester
Contact 2: Kate Pickle
Contact 3: Corrine Jager

Website: http://www.scienceclubforgirls.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SCFGFan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/scfg

Scope: Boston
Employees: 40



Black Girls Code

An organization that helps African-American girls ages 7-17 learn programming and take charge of their future, mainly through workshops across the country.

Contact 1: Kimberly Bryant
Contact 2: Monique Wingard
Contact 3: Tecia Garrett Marshall

Website: http://www.blackgirlscode.com/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/BlackGirlsCodeOrg
Twitter: http://twitter.com/blackgirlscode

Scope: National
Employees: 27



IT-ology

IT-ology is a non-profit collaboration of businesses, academic institutions and organizations dedicated to growing the IT talent pipeline, fostering economic development and advancing the IT profession.

Contact 1: Tammy Mainwaring
Contact 2: Rachel Barnett
Contact 3: Jamesetta James

Website: http://it-ology.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IToLogy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IT_oLogy

Scope: South Carolina
Employees: 20



TechGirlz

TechGirlz is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to reducing the gender gap in technology occupations. We develop fun and educational hands-on workshops, called TechShopz, and an annual Entrepreneur Summer Camp. These efforts aim to get middle-school age girls interested in different kinds of technology and demonstrate the varied options of careers available.

Contact 1: Tracey Welson-Rossman
Contact 2: Karen Stellabotte
Contact 3: Sarah Johnson

Website: http://www.techgirlz.org/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/techgirlzorg
Twitter: http://twitter.com/techgirlzorg

Scope: National
Employees: 18



MentorNet

MentorNet, a division of Great Minds in STEM, connects STEM students from freshman year through the doctoral level with mentors working in a variety of STEM fields. Any STEM student in an accredited institution of higher education in the U.S. and professionals with STEM degrees may join our new open social network for mentoring at http://www.mentornet.org/join. More than 60% of MentorNet mentees are women and more than 30% are pursuing degrees in computing.

Contact 1: Mary Fernandez
Contact 2: John Cross
Contact 3: Rebecca Rubenstein

Website: http://www.mentornet.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentornet
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MentorNetTweet

Scope: International
Employees: 17



AkiraChix

AkiraChix is a not for profit organisation that aims to inspire and develop a successful force of women in technology who will change Africa’s future.Founded in April 2010, AkiraChix aims to be the leading women’s network impacting technology in Africa.

Contact 1: Angela O. Lungati
Contact 2: Judith Owigar
Contact 3: Linda Kamau

Website: http://akirachix.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/AkiraChix/173842546011090
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AkiraChix

Scope: Africa
Employees: 16



DIY Girls

DIY (“Do-It-Yourself”) Girls’ mission is to increase girls’ interest and success in technology, engineering and making through innovative educational experiences and mentor relationships. We're a supportive community for girls driven by an interest in creating and building with technology.

Contact 1: Luz Rivas
Contact 2: Evelyn Gomez
Contact 3: Keyanay Colvin

Website: http://www.diygirls.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/diygirlsLA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DIYGirls

Scope: Los Angeles
Employees: 8



Young Rewired State

Young Rewired State (often stylized as YRS) is an organisation based in the United Kingdom, which run events and schemes for technically gifted young people aged 18 and under. It brings together young developers, designers, and those with other technical skills to build projects (mainly phone and web applications) that attempt to solve real world problems.

Contact 1: Emma Mulqueeny

Website: http://www.yrs.io/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/youngrewired/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/youngrewired

Scope: UK
Employees: 8



HER Ideas in Motion

HER Ideas in Motion is a 501c3 nonprofit corporation focused on helping girls achieve in technology and media arts. Through hands-on workshops and tech clubs, girls learn technical and creative skills from professionals, while building their own projects. In addition, HER Ideas in Motion has developed a women-led approach that combines female technical and creative professionals teaching and mentoring girls to provide access to female role models in these fields.

Contact 1: Rachel Wilkins Patel
Contact 2: Nicole Capuana
Contact 3: Chrissy Freeman

Website: http://www.herideasinmotion.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HERIdeasinMotion
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HERIdeas

Scope: Ohio
Employees: 6



CodeEd

A program that teaches computer science to girls in underserved communities, starting in middle school. They run classes in Boston, New York, and San Francisco.

Contact 1: Carey Tan
Contact 2: Angie Schiavoni
Contact 3: Sep Kamvar

Website: http://www.codeed.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/codeedorg
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/codeedorg

Scope: NYC / San Fran
Employees: 4



Go Girl, Go for IT

Go Girl, Go for IT aims to excite and engage female secondary school students by introducing them to the vast range of global, lucrative and varied career options in IT. The event focuses on inspiring students with fantastic role model speakers, showcasing technology of the future and challenging their preconceptions of a career in IT. There will be access to a wealth of information that will assist students in making informed decisions about a career in IT.

Contact 1: Fi Slaven
Contact 2: Sue Hogg
Contact 3: Sara Ogston

Website: http://www.gogirl.org.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoGirlGo4IT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GoGirlGo4IT

Scope: Australia
Employees: 3



MIT Women's Initiative

High school girls are taking high level math and science courses-with the exception of physics and engineering-at similar rates as their male peers; however, gender disparities begin to emerge at the undergraduate level, where men outnumber women in many STEM fields. Women receive only 18.2% of bachelor degrees awarded in computer science, 19.1% in physics, and 19.2% in engineering.

Contact 1: Yagnaseni Roy
Contact 2: Jennifer Switzer
Contact 3: Aswini Prasad

Website: http://web.mit.edu/wi/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womensinitiativemit/

Scope: National
Employees: 3



Girls Programming Network

The Girls' Programming Network is run by girls for girls. We run workshop every term for high school girls in the Sydney area on programming & awesome IT stuff!

Website: https://sites.google.com/site/girlsprogrammingnetwork/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GirlsProgrammingNetwork
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gpn_sydney

Scope: Australia
Employees: 0

REGIONAL GROUPS



Women & Hi Tech

Women and Hi Tech is an organization of women and men whose goal is to attract, develop, retain, support and promote women who are interested in technology, through networking, role modeling, education and professional development.

Contact 1: Tiffany White
Contact 2: Audrey Taylor
Contact 3: Robin Fleming

Website: http://womenandhitech.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/89845872652/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WomenandHiTech

Scope: Indiana
Employees: 10



RichTech Women In Technology Forum

The Rich Tech Women In Technology Forum is designed to provide networking, mentoring and educational opportunities for women involved at all levels of technology centric businesses or organizations. The mission of the forum is to be a catalyst in growing the interest of science, technology, math and engineering among today’s young women. The council organizes an inaugural Women ETC (Education, Technology, Careers) event that provides professional development, education, and collaboration amongst its participants.

Contact 1: Robby Demeria
Contact 2: Tracy Dickerson
Contact 3: Margaret Taylor

Website: http://rvatechwomen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RVAtechwomen/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Women_etc

Scope: Richmond, VA
Employees: 9



Philly Women in Tech

A community that connects women in technology fields in Philadelphia to learn from and inspire each other. Host of the 2012 Women in Tech Summit.

Contact 1: Gloria BellContact 2: Tracey Welson-RossmanContact 3: Kelly Hoey

Website: http://www.phillywomenintech.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WomenInTechSummit
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/WomenTechSummit

Scope: Philadelphia
Employees: 5



Women's Coding Collective

The WCC is a web development community with a mission to narrow the gender gap in technology. We cultivate supportive, no-stupid-questions environments where women can learn, build, and code together.

Contact 1: Nicole Noll
Contact 2: Susan Buck

Website: https://thewcc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearewcc
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WeAreWCC

Scope: Boston
Employees: 4



Chicago Women Developers

Classes and events in Chicago for female programmers. They are in the middle of their Summer Apps Program, a series of three courses to transform your idea into a web and mobile app. They also host weekly open hack nights on Thursday (#XXHACK), where anyone can show up and get help on coding.

Contact 1: Melissa Pierce
Contact 2: Alison Stanton
Contact 3: Chelsea Troy

Website: http://cwdevs.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CWDevs

Scope: Chicago
Employees: 3



DC Web Women

A 3,000+ member organization of women in web design and development, IT, and other digital careers (such as blogging and marketing).

Contact 1: Sibyl Edwards
Contact 2: Estela Rueda
Contact 3: Ashley Holtz

Website: http://dcwebwomen.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DCWebWomen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dcww

Scope: Washington DC
Employees: 3



She++

A conference held at Stanford University on the opportunities, challenges, and role models for women in technology, to inspire more “femgineers”: female programmers who use their skills for positive change.

Contact 1: Reynis Vazquez-Guzman
Contact 2: Katherine Van Kirk
Contact 3: Shreya Shankar

Website: http://sheplusplus.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShePlusPlus/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sheplusplus

Scope: Stanford
Employees: 3

CODING ORGANIZATIONS



CoderDojo

CoderDojo is a worldwide movement of free, volunteer-led, community-based programming clubs for young people. Anyone aged seven to seventeen can visit a Dojo where they can learn to code, build a website, create an app or a game, and explore technology in an informal, creative, and social environment.

Contact 1: James Whelton
Contact 2: Bill Liao
Contact 3: Giustina Mizzoni

Website: https://coderdojo.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/coderdojo
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coderdojo

Scope: International
Employees: 170



Women Who Code

Women Who Code is a global non-profit dedicated to inspiring women to excel in technology careers. We provide an avenue into tech, empower women with skills needed for professional advancement, and provide environments where networking and mentorship are valued. The organization has executed more than 1,200 free events around the world, garnered a membership exceeding 20,000, and has a presence in 15 countries.

Contact 1: Alaina Percival
Contact 2: Jennifer TacheffContact 3: Joey Rosenberg

Website: https://www.womenwhocode.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/womenwhocode
Twitter: https://twitter.com/womenwhocode

Scope: International
Employees: 109



Ladies Learning Code

We are a not-for-profit organization with the mission to be the leading resource for women and youth to become passionate builders - not just consumers - of technology by learning technical skills in a hands-on, social, and collaborative way

Contact 1: Melissa Sariffodeen
Contact 2: Laura Plant
Contact 3: Nicole Belanger

Website: http://ladieslearningcode.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ladieslearningcode
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LLCodeDotCom

Scope: Canadian
Employees: 92



Ada Development Academy

Ada Developers Academy is a training program located in Seattle, Washington for women who want to become software developers. Ada is tuition-free and is comprised of 6 months of full-time classroom training followed by 5 months in a paid industry internship.

Contact 1: Scott Case
Contact 2: Elise Worthy

Website: http://adadevelopersacademy.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adadevelopers
Twitter: https://twitter.com/adaacademy

Scope: Seattle
Employees: 63



Ladies that UX

A friendly, welcoming and collaborative community, with a growing number of local groups based in cities worldwide.

Contact 1: Lizzie Dyson
Contact 2: Georgie Bottomley

Website: http://ladiesthatux.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LadiesThatUX
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ladiesthatux

Scope: International
Employees: 26



Django Girls

Django Girls is a non-profit organization and a community that empowers and helps women to organize free, one-day programming workshops by providing tools, resources and support. We are a volunteer run organization with hundreds of people contributing to bring more amazing women into the world of technology.

Contact 1: Kaja Milanowska
Contact 2: Lucie Daeye
Contact 3: Anubha Maneshwar

Website: https://djangogirls.org/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/djangogirls
Twitter: http://twitter.com/djangogirls

Scope: International
Employees: 15



Code It Like A Girl

Code it Like a Girl is a digital media collective that creates content intended to inspire people who self-identify as female to follow their dreams. From technology news and how-to’s to remarkable stories of people all around the world, articles on feminism or just whatever we feel like talking-writing-filming about, we’ll be sharing our POV on anything that can be proven empowering, valuable, informative or entertaining to our audience.

Contact 1: Maria Dermentzi
Contact 2: Anastasia Siapka
Contact 3: Vasiliki-Eleni Provopoulou

Website: http://www.codeitlikeagirl.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/codeitlikeagirl
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/codeitlikeagirl

Scope: Greece
Employees: 15



Cloud Girls

Cloud Girls is an open, vendor-neutral, not-for-profit community of female technology advocates dedicated to educating themselves, their organizations and customers about the vast and dynamic cloud ecosystem. By exploring emerging market and technical trends, advocating best practices/reference architectures and building community consensus, Cloud Girls is fostering the next wave of women in technology.

Contact 1: Jo Peterson
Contact 2: Manon Buettner
Contact 3: Michelle Hyde

Website: http://cloudgirls.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cloudgirls
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/gocloudgirls

Scope: National
Employees: 10



jduchess

Duchess is a global organization for women in Java technology, currently with 550 members in over 60 countries. Duchess provides a platform through which women who work with Java can connect with each other and get involved in the greater Java community. It aims to make the role of women and the individual women's contributions visible in the Java community and to teach the benefits of diversity in any team environment - whether corporate or open-source.

Contact 1: Linda van der Pal

Website: http://www.jduchess.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jduchess.org
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jduchess

Scope: International
Employees: 8



Railsbridge

RailsBridge workshops are a free and fun way to get started or level up with Rails, Ruby, and other web technologies. Our events focus on increasing diversity in tech, so that people of all backgrounds can feel welcome and comfortable in our industry.

Contact 1: Kari Bancroft
Contact 2: Coraline Ada Ehmke
Contact 3: Rachel Myers

Website: http://www.railsbridge.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/railsbridge
Twitter: https://twitter.com/railsbridge

Scope: International
Employees: 3



Outreachy

Outreachy helps people from groups underrepresented in free and open source software get involved. We provide a supportive community for beginning to contribute any time throughout the year and offer focused internship opportunities twice a year with a number of free software organizations.

Contact 1: Marina Zhurakhinskaya
Contact 2: Christie Koehler
Contact 3: Sarah Sharp

Website: https://www.gnome.org/outreachy/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/outreachy

Scope: National
Employees: 3



Latina Girls Code

Formed in 2014, Latina Girls Code is a program created to fill the diversity gap between girls who are interested in technology through education and resources. LGC will provide mentors, access to hardware and digital tools as well as internships through various programs and events throughout the year. It is the endeavor of the organization to provide tangible education to those particularly in disadvantaged areas in hopes to spur interest in the technology.

Contact 1: Antonio Garcia
Contact 2: Cindy Agustín

Website: http://latinagirlscode.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LatinaGirlsCode/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/latinagirlscode

Scope: Chicago
Employees: 2



Railsgirls

Our aim is to give tools and a community for women to understand technology and to build their ideas. We do this by providing a great experience on building things and by making technology more approachable.

Contact 1: Linda Liukas
Contact 2: Karri Saarinen

Website: http://www.railsgirls.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/railsgirls
Twitter: http://twitter.com/railsgirls

Scope: International
Employees: 2



CodeChix

CodeChix fosters continuous learning through our chapters’ events and workshops. Offerings include hacking sessions, technical talks, and hands-on, developer-led technical workshops. Sample events include Wikipedia’s Operations Infrastructure, Algorithms and Directed Acyclic Graphs, Mobile/Graphic Design for Engineers Workshop, Toy Robotics: My little Pleo, OpenShift Workshop, and Android Instalfest & App Building 101.

Contact 1: Rupa Dachere
Contact 2: Sabrina Farmer
Contact 3: Rebecca Parsons

Website: http://codechix.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/codechix/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/codechix

Scope: International
Employees: 2



Pyladies

We are an international mentorship group with a focus on helping more women become active participants and leaders in the Python open-source community. Our mission is to promote, educate and advance a diverse Python community through outreach, education, conferences, events and social gatherings.

Contact 1: Lynn Root

Website: http://www.pyladies.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pyladies/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pyladies

Scope: International
Employees: 1
EDUCATION




Girl Develop It

Technical workshops for female programmers held around the United States, as well as in Canada and Australia. They aim to create a supportive environment where women can join the discussion and show off their skills. Courses are also available online.

Contact 1: Corinne Warnshuis
Contact 2: Vanessa Hurst
Contact 3: LaVonna Ricketts

Website: http://girldevelopit.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/girldevelopit
Twitter: https://twitter.com/girldevelopit

Scope: International
Employees: 127



Skillcrush

A site targeted at women to help them learn technology, including tech terms, Ask Ada (named after the first programmer), and other articles.

Contact 1: Adda Birnir
Contact 2: Aisha Souto-Maior
Contact 3: Ann Cadcarano

Website: http://skillcrush.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Skillcrush
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SkillCrush

Scope: International
Employees: 38



Hackbright Academy

A 10-week training program for women in San Francisco – half learning, half doing. Applications for the fall program are due in August, and it costs $6,000.

Contact 1: Sharon Wienbar
Contact 2: Scott Deming
Contact 3: Angie Chang

Website: https://hackbrightacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HackbrightAcademy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hackbright

Scope: San Francisco
Employees: 20


ACCELERATORS / INVESTORS




Golden Seeds

A firm that invests in early-stage companies with a female founder/CEO or executive. They also offer business training to entrepreneurs and investors.

Contact 1: Jo Ann Corkran
Contact 2: Loretta McCarthy
Contact 3: Peggy Wallace

Website: http://goldenseeds.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GoldenSeeds

Scope: National
Employees: 193



Astia

A not-for-profit organization that offers paid, week-long programs to help female entrepreneurs in technology, life sciences, and clean tech to learn skills for revenue generation, sales, and fundraising. Includes a support network of over 200 investors and 300 startup executives.

Contact 1: Sharon Vosmek
Contact 2: Victoria Pettibone
Contact 3: Yuka Nagashima

Website: http://www.astia.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astiaglobal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/astiaglobal

Scope: Silicon Valley / Global
Employees: 145



Springboard

Their “Forum Program” is an accelerator with two months of coaching for women-led businesses. They also offer pitch practice and educational programs to learn how to fundraise.

Contact 1: Kay Koplovitz
Contact 2: Amy Millman
Contact 3: Anna Consani

Website: https://www.springboardenterprises.org/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/springboardent

Scope: International
Employees: 46



Bad Girl Ventures

A microlending organization started by Candace Kleinthat helps women-owned startups in Ohio. Borrowers also get a nine-week course on business development.

Contact 1: Nancy Aichholz
Contact 2: Angela Ozar
Contact 3: Caitlin Saia

Website: http://www.badgirlventures.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BadGirlVentures
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BGV_Cincinnati

Scope: Ohio
Employees: 17



Women Who Tech

Organizers of the yearly Women Who Tech TeleSummit, with talks by women in technology, startups, and social media. Creators of the #Women2Follow hashtag onTwitter.

Contact 1: Allyson Kapin
Contact 2: Lisa Stone
Contact 3: Amy Sample Ward

Website: http://www.womenwhotech.com/
Facebook: http://facebook.com//groups/254758964539368/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/womenwhotech

Scope: International
Employees: 5



FemaleDev

This year, FemaleDev focuses on producing, mentoring, and nurturing female startup founders in Indonesia’s tech ecosystem.

Contact 1: Alamanda Shantika Santoso
Contact 2: Aulia Jasmine Oktofan
Contact 3: Niki Hidayati

Website: http://femaledev.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FemaleDev/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/femaledev

Scope: Indonesia
Employees: 3



NewME Accelerator

A 12-week mentorship program in Mountain View for startups led by a minority founder (African American, Latino, or female).

Contact 1: Angela Benton
Contact 2: Eva Ho

Website: http://www.newmeaccelerator.com/

Scope: NationalEmployees: 2


CREATIVE SPACES




digitalundivided

digitalundivided uses innovation to foster the economic growth and empowerment of Black and Latina women entrepreneurs.

Contact 1: Kathryn Finney
Contact 2: Darlene Gillard Jones
Contact 3: Danielle Robinson Bell

Website: http://www.digitalundivided.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/digitalundivided/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/digundiv/

Scope: Atlanta
Employees: 7



Double Union

Double Union is a space for your projects - Things women do in this space include sewing, programming, electronics, woodworking, fiber arts of all kinds, and zine making.

Contact 1: Alexsarah Collier
Contact 2: Tina Coles
Contact 3: Daniela Arias

Website: https://www.doubleunion.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doubleunion
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DoubleUnionSF

Scope: San Francisco
Employees: 5



Women's Center for Creative Work

Founded in 2013, the Women’s Center for Creative Work, or WCCW, is a not-for-profit organization that cultivates LA’s feminist creative communities and practices. Combining a co-workspace on the LA river in Frogtown, project incubation facilities, residency programs, a rapidly growing network of over 15,000 followers, and a full calendar of artistic and professional development programming for female creatives, WCCW advocates for female-led creative businesses and projects in Los Angeles.

Contact 1: Sarah Williams
Contact 2: Kate Johnston
Contact 3: Emily Walworth

Website: http://womenscenterforcreativework.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenscenterforcreativework
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WCCWLA

Scope: Los Angeles
Employees: 3

If you have any additions, please let me know miragusa@cisco.com

Friday, October 16, 2015

Does it take being "Mean" to get ahead?

Today, I read an interesting blog by my friend Amy Katz of Channel E2E From Entrepreneur to Exit "Mind if I B*tch a Bit"  (click here to read



Firstly, as Vice-Chair of CompTIA's Advancing Women in IT Community, I am very happy to hear your feed back about our community and posts.  We absolutely try to bridge the gap and create an equal playing field and opportunities for men and women alike.

Thank you for bringing up a very Interesting perspective which is often discussed within our communities and members.  Let me begin by saying, of course women tend to be outnumbered in the IT field (significantly), in fact in the last 10 years women entering a career in IT has not only plateaued, but declined.  We hope to change that through mentorship, advocacy, and conversations such as this.

Sheryl Sandberg discussed a similar topic in her book "Lean In" whereby women who act a certain way are perceived as "mean" or b*tchy, while a man who perceives in the precise same way is celebrated for his leadership.  Is it in fact the women that is being "mean" or just the perception of a strong authority that is misunderstood.

Personally, some of my best mentors have been senior women in leadership.  Why?  They get it.  They recognize my efforts, hard work and support me - not because I am a woman, but in spite of it.  It is absolutely necessary to have champions who can mentor and guide you throughout your professional career (no matter the stage or experience, we can always afford to learn something new).

Were the women you aforementioned directly told those quotes, or was it their perception?  Let's examine some options- what if a man and woman leader felt the same way about promoting the individual- but she voiced her opinion and he did not. Is this now considered constructive criticism?  Or perhaps it would have been more helpful to provide clear actionable items on how she might improve her perception to get ahead.  Or, maybe it would be best to say you disagree and would love the opportunity to prove you don't have to be mean to be talented, determined, and successful... or maybe it's time for a skip level.

It is my honest opinion that the more women support each other, the better it will be to share perspective, insight, experiences, and support.  However, as men are typically the majority it is equally important they too take an active role to understand that regardless if you are a man, or a woman, you can be successful with the right encouragement and opportunities.  It is not too often I hear of a man being promoted because he is kind, or a woman being looked over because she is too nice, or not mean enough.  These stereotypes (real or imagined) are the very road blocks which inhibit the success of individuals and the overall organizations.

Regardless of your chromosomes we all potentially can be great contributors.  There is an absolute proven statistical benefit to having diversity in the work place, and unique ideas to help the company grow and become successful- as well as target an audience who is also diverse.  It is the hope that some day we will not be judged by our gender, but by the person we are, the history we have built our success  on, and the opportunity for the future of what we can contribute.  It is the hope that managers can look past these things and encourage you to be your best, and support you on your journey by being fair and kind wouldn't hurt :).


I would love to know your thoughts and perspectives- please share them here...

Friday, May 16, 2014

Dream IT, My Life as a Robot: Advancing Women in IT!

As many of you know, I adore CompTIA's Advancing Women In I.T., what we stand for "The Advancing Women in IT Community is dedicated to empowering women with the knowledge and skills necessary to help their pursuit of successful IT careers, as well as to inspire women to enter the IT field as a career choice. The community is a vital information resource, provides mentorship and networking opportunities, develops member-driven initiatives and programs, is active in legislation involving women and careers, and is actively involved in pursuing the overall objectives of the CompTIA – ECAP (education, certification, advocacy and philanthropy). Members of this group are women who are currently in or aspire to be in IT careers and men who support this mission."; as well as the people who make up our group!



This year I was named "Vice-Chair" and was ecstatic to attend my fourth annual Annual Member Meeting.  Unfortunately, I was due to give birth the day before.  I planned ahead of time with former chairman Bob Godgart, CEO Todd Thibbodeaux and the the AWIT Community Leader Cathy J. Alper, Chair Dori Allyn, and head of Committees Jim Hamilton to utilize a proxy via virtual robot  ( a virtual two way robot which I can control, talk and move around the room remotely!).



I ended up giving birth the day before the conference on April 1, 2014 to Brooklyn Marie McBain, but Jay McBain and I were still able to attend the Conference the following day thanks to our proxy robot the following day (look for Jay and I in the first row on the robots "IPAD face").  In fact, it was baby Brooklyn's first live technology conference as well- a great start for our little lady to know anything she does it possible if you Dream IT.


Live from our Nursery at the Hospital:


A close up of our Baby Brooklyn below...

I am proud that I work for a company like Cisco which has the flexibility and empowerment to support new moms (and dads), and am Vice-Chair of a group like CompTIA's AWIT who truly does support and empower women (and men), for and through technology!  Way to practice what we preach.  #ProudtobeinTech
(Cathy asking me via robot if I am ready to do my part of the agenda, "Keys to Success")


The Inspirational Quotes, and Words of our members who attended the meeting,  can be found weekly on our AWIT FB Page, and Twitter Account:




Thank you Sandy Ashworth, Nancy Hammervik, Susan Krautbauer for being pioneers to form this vital community which benefits so many!  Thanks also to the amazing ladies I am privelaged to have and continue to serve with:  Nellie C. Scott, Cristina Martin Greysman, Mary Ellen Grom, Doriana Allyn, Hillary Gadda, Jean Mork Bredeson, John Mehrman, Lindsay Rufa Hall, Lori Berry,  Robin Haggerty, Stacey Powell, and Theresa Caragol!  Some of our crew "meditating" before the conference seen below :)


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Chicago Tech Institutes Program for Young Women in IT

Friday, March 22, 2013

SMB150 + Women in Technology = Bright Future













I am honored and privileged to have been nominated and awarded a second year in a row for the SMB150! Over the past several months, hundreds of IT professionals from around the world have been engaged in the SMB 150 Channel Influencers contest. The SMB 150, which is a collaboration between SMB Nation and SMB Technology Network, declaring the third annual SMB technology channel's list of its 150 most influential members.  

"I encourage everyone in the SMB channel community to join with me in recognizing and celebrating the winners of this year’s SMB 150," said Harry Brelsford, Founder and Chairman, SMB Nation. "Each individual whose name appears on this esteemed list has strived to ensure that our SMB community is one that will continue to thrive and succeed. I am beyond excited to toast them at the awards dinner on May 4 in Redmond."

The following is the list of esteemed winners: 
Aaron Booker
Abhijit Chatterjee
Akash Saraf
Alan Helbush
Alan Schrater
Alan Weinberger
Alex Rogers
Ali Din
Allen Miller
Amy Babinchak
Amy Luby

Andy Goodman
Andy Harper
Anurag Agrawal
Arlin Sorensen
Arnie Bellini
Ashutosh Tiwary
Austin McChord
Barbara Dove 
Bill Hole
Bob Godgart
Bob Nitrio
Bob Vogel
Brett Jaffe
Brian Burch
Brian Laufer
Brian Sherman
Carl Mazzanti
Carlos Fernando Paleo da Rocha
Carlson Colomb
Cecilia Galvin
Charles Weaver
Chris Amori
Chris Bangs
Chris Chase
Chris Sterbenc
Christy Sacco 
Cindy Bates 
Cliff Galiher
Corey Simpson
Curtis Hicks
Dan Tervo
Dana M. Epp
Dave Sobel
David Bellini
David Johnson
David Spire
Debi Bush
Dina Moskowitz 

Dona Keating 
Ebrahim Keshavarz
Ed Correia
Elvis Guštin
Eric Ligman
Eric Townsend
Frank Ernesto
Frank Gurnee
Gary Pica
Greg Starks
Herman Pool
Hilton Travis
Howard Cunningham
Ian Moyse
Jacob Braun
James Foxall
James Kernan
Jamison West
Jan Spring
Jane Cage 
Jason Coffer
Jay Epton
Jay Ferron
Jay McBain
Jeannine Edwards
Jeff Middleton    
Jeff Ragusa
Jeremiah Ilges
Jerry Koutavas
Jessica Devita 
Jim Sterling
Jim Turner
Joe Hillis
Joe Panettieri
John Krikke
Josh Freifield
Justin Crotty
Karen Guarino
Kate Hunt 
Keith Nelson
Ken Edwards
Kenneth May
Kevin Royalty
Larry Doyle
Larry Schulze
Larry Walsh
Lawrence Hsu
Len DiCostanzo
Leonard Dimiceli
Linda Brotherton
Mark Crall
Mark Hicks
Matt Makowicz
Michael Jenkin
Michael O'Connell
Michael Reuben
Michael Siggins
Michelle Ragusa 
Mitch Garvis
MJ Shoer
Nancy Hammervik 
Nancy Williams 
Paul Dippell
Peter Sandiford
Philip Elder
Praerit Garg
Ramon L. Garcia
Ramon Ray
Rayanne Buchianico
Richard Kenyon
Richard Tubb
Rick Bahl
Rob T Rae
Robb Patterson
Robert Cohen
Robert Crane
Robin Robins
Robyn Davis 

Scott Barlow
Scott Scrogin
Scott Wharton
Shari Godgart
Steve Harper
Steve Noel
Steven Banks
Steven Cullen
Steven Teiger
Stuart Crawford
Stuart Selbst
Suresh Ramani
Susan Bradley 
Ted Hulsy
Ted Roller
Thomas Fox
Tim Barrett
Todd Thibodeaux
Travis Austin
Vince Tinnirello
Vlad Mazek
Wayne Small
Zak Karsan

Twitter, Facebook,Google+, LinkedIn and Blogs have been a buzz with the excitement and congratulations of joining this esteemed list.   As Jay McBain, co-founder of ChannelEyes (and my fiance) stated  in his most recent  blog"We are thrilled to be in the company of such well-respected professionals".  As am I, but there is a certain group who really make me proud to be in their company.  As you might have noted, I have highlighted (proudly in pink) 23 extraordinary names which stood out to me.  As I sit on the Executive Council of CompTIA's Advancing Women in IT, it is always a privilege and an honor to see those hardworking women in our community represented for their excellence.

In my blog last year,  Chic and Geek,  I took a look at the amount of women represented in this and various other awards and lists, as nominees and winners.   Statistically, women make up approximately 10 % of the IT Industry.  Although I know we (as women) represent a minority in the IT community, I was surprised to see how few women make up the percentage of leaders and influencers in the IT industry. 

Awards Gala recognizing the SMB150 2012 Winners 

On a high note we can see the since it's inception in the 2011 SMB Awards we have seen a rise, and diverse amount of women represented in nomination and recognition over the past three years.   In 2011, 13 women won the SMB150 award (8.6%), 20 won in 2012 (13.5%) , and 22 as of 2013 (15%) ; thus female representation in only a few years has almost doubled!  Now that is a powerful and wonderful step in the right direction. 



A huge kudos to the  community vote, and esteemed panel of industry experts consisting of Harry Brelsford, (SMB Nation); Karl Palachuk, (Great Little Book Publishing Co., Inc.); Josh Peterson, (MSP Score); Dave Seibert, (IT Innovators); and Dan Wensley, (Level Platforms), evaluated each nominee based on a pre-established criteria, on the recognition of such wonderful and diverse list of men and women on this years award recipients. 

These days the media is on fire with commotion of and by women.  Marissa Mayer's calling home (or firing) her remote work force - my two cents were written in my blog, Why Cisco got it right, and Yahoo got it Wrong! .  Next came Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, author of the newly published book "Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead", which caused a lot of controversy, and praise.  Supporter or not, one can celebrate that it once again opened the conversation of Women in IT and their advancement.

Recently after reading Sheryl Sandberg's book and speaking to her, our Cisco CEO John Chambers had some revelations.   John Chambers always felt that he and his executives were doing a good job creating a positive working environment for women.  Now, Chambers said, he realizes there's more work to be done at Cisco, and for our more than 70,000 employees worldwide.


"While I have always considered myself sensitive to and effective on gender issues in the workplace, my eyes were opened in new ways and I feel a renewed sense of urgency to make the progress we haven't made in the last decade," Chambers wrote in an internal email after sitting down with Sandberg. "Without realizing it, we operate every day with gender stereotypes and biases, many of which we do not realize. After reading 'Lean In' and listening to Sheryl, I realize that, while I believe I am relatively enlightened, I have not consistently walked the talk." Jeffrey Burt of eweek reported to the outside world.


Padmasree Warrior- Cisco 
Although I have always been proud to work for Cisco, and especially John Chambers- there is a certain level of pride I felt by his recognition and announcement... and now, more than ever, I can say I am honored to be a part of this company and his vision.   Cisco's Chambers said in his email—obtained by the newsite AllThingsD—(I of course received my copy internally ;)) that his company needs to do a better job creating a working environment where women can flourish and rise up the ladder. Cisco has several top-level female executives—Padmasree Warrior, the company's CTO and chief strategy officer, for example (who I highlighted her inspirational panel discussion in my blog Happy International Women's Day!), and Rebecca Jacoby, CIO and senior vice president of the IT and Cloud and Systems Management Technology Group—but it can do better, he said.


Chambers noted that less than 25 percent of Cisco employees are women, and 20 percent of the 1 million students at the company's networking academy are women.  Yet he recognizes this and seeks to create more opportunities for women within Cisco.  "I believe we—together—need to drive a fundamental culture change and it is up to us as leaders to make this change happen," Chambers wrote. "What we have been doing hasn't worked, and it is time to adjust."  





Technology is the very essence of growing and adapting to change.  Seeing esteemed leaders such as John Chambers, my personal Cisco inspiration in my career, and esteemed organizations such as SMB150 rise up to meet the changing times makes me proud to be a part of this technology industry.  Working on the Executive Council of CompTia's Advancing Women in IT has been a privilege and an honor.


Last week at CompTIA's Annual Member Meeting we had the opportunity to have 7 young ladies from the Chicago Tech Institute (all young high school girls dressed in their adorable uniforms, bright eyed and bushy tailed for our 7 am breakfast meeting).  They were engaged, open, and listening deeply to the round table discussions and inspiring and gripping panel Cisco's Michelle Chiantera, Senior Director of America's Partner Marketing, and Betty Grogan- AVP, North American Channel Engagement at Ergotron.  At one point one of the young ladies had to ask, "I am sure everyone already knows, but what IS a glass ceiling?"  Well my dear, I hope you never have to learn except in definition.  I hope the leaders of today continue to fortify the paths which have been blazed for me, and we will continue to clear those trails for you.

At the end of the discussion, their Executive Director Matt Hancock (who happened to be a man) said, "I know this is for the Advancement of Women, but I have learned so much from today about how to improve myself, I certainly will have to  attend next year.  Matt explained the goal of their HS is to close the gender gap in technology.  He had been working with some of the girls for three years, who reluctantly thought a career in technology was "too hard and not for them"...  Until a few hours with us.  With pride one of the girls said, "I was wrong, I think there are a lot more opportunities in tech then I realized, and you can still be cool and in technology".  Well kudos to us on that cool vote, and even more so that we helped showcase how wonderful a career in technology truly is- for men and women alike!

If we helped make a difference in the course of one, or maybe even all seven young girls lives, we are on the right track.  It starts with one, "The confidence and optimism that you’ll hear in our young girls’ voices is the confidence and optimism that you’ve helped instil" stated Matt Cook.  Thank you to SMB150, Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg, Cisco's John Chambers, CompTIA's AWIT, and all of the organizations who work to educate, and inspire the youth of America, and the world.   Thanks also to the men and women in a position of leadership who have not forgetten where they came from, and take the time to "reach down and lift someone else up" stated eloquently from Blair Christie, Cisco's SVP,CMO WW Government Affairs on International Women's Day.  It is through ongoing open dialogue  mentorship, recognition and support, we can change lives, we can change the future.