Encouraging young women into tech sector careers

Shadow IT initiative encourages young women into tech sector careers

Technology companies are being urged to get behind an initiative aimed at encouraging more young women into the tech sector.

Information Technology is the fastest growing industry in New Zealand but there’s a significant shortfall of school leavers choosing to take up careers in the sector.

In response to the shortage of talent the industry’s pre-eminent body, the New Zealand Technology Industry Association (NZTech) and leading polytech Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT), have teamed up to create “Shadow IT”, a programme aimed at exposing school-age women to the many benefits of the a career in IT.

Shadow IT is an opportunity for high school female students to shadow technology professionals for a day on August 27th to get a better understanding of the workplace and career choices available in IT.

NZTech CEO Candace Kinser says, “Women are under-represented in IT and it’s important to showcase the exciting prospects in the industry while these young women are making their career choices.”

Ms Kinser says the purpose of this program is to inspire young female students by presenting career avenues that could be in their future. “In short we want more young female school leavers to pursue a career in IT. By spending a day in the life of an IT professional, the young women will see firsthand how interesting and diverse the career options are.”

Shadow IT will educate the students on the day-to-day challenges and rewards of the industry and workplace reinforce the need for academic performances for workplace success and shape a more qualified future workforce.
More employers are needed to sign up to host students for the “Shadow IT” day and time is running out to register.

There’s already been a strong response from employers in the sector but MIT Industry and Community Engagement Manager, Edwina Mistry says more employers are needed to showcase the depth and breadth of opportunities within IT.

Employers have until next Monday 21st to register for “Shadow IT” and Ms Mistry says they can do this by going to www.nztech.org.nz.

ENDS

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