The landscape of technology and innovation has been notoriously male-dominated, but women are breaking into positions of power and influence within the industry, including the role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO). With the rise of initiatives stressing the importance of diversity and inclusion, there is no doubt that we’ll see more women holding these positions in the near future.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of female leadership in tech as we examine the paths, challenges, and success stories of women CTOs in top companies. We’ll take a closer look at famous women CTOs like Christina Hall, the CTO of ADP, and Sukrutha Bhadouria, the VP of Engineering at Stubhub. Additionally, we’ll feature inspiring stories of “girl geeks,” innovators, and top women CIOs for 2020, all of whom defy the stereotypes of a male-dominated industry.
We’ll also get into the nitty-gritty with facts and figures, such as how many women currently hold the position of a CTO and what percentage of CTOs are female. We’ll explore whether being a CTO is a high-level position and examine the average age of people who hold CTO positions.
Finally, we’ll give you a glimpse into the future as we highlight talented female leaders in tech who are hustling their way to the top. Keep an eye out for our list of 60 female CTOs to watch in 2023.
Get ready to be inspired, enlightened, and empowered as we dive into the world of women CTOs.
Women in Tech: The Rise of Female CTOs
In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of women taking on leadership roles in the tech industry. One notable trend is the increasing number of women holding the position of Chief Technology Officer (CTO). In this article, we will explore the role of women in the tech industry and how their rise to leadership positions is changing the face of technology as we know it.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling
Women have long been underrepresented in the tech industry, particularly in leadership roles. However, in recent years, this trend has begun to shift as more and more women enter the tech field and climb the corporate ladder. Today, there are many women in high-powered positions in tech companies, including CEOs, CTOs, and other top executives.
Women CTOs: Leading the Way
One area where women are making significant strides is in the role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO). The CTO is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a company’s technology strategy, from the development of new products to the implementation of new technologies. It is a critical role that requires a deep understanding of the industry and an ability to navigate complex technical challenges.
Here are some key facts and figures about women CTOs:
- According to a recent study, women hold just 10% of CTO positions at Fortune 500 companies.
- However, this number is steadily increasing, with more women being appointed to CTO roles each year.
- Many female CTOs come from non-technical backgrounds, such as marketing or finance, which highlights the importance of diversity in the industry.
- Women who do hold technical degrees often face challenges that their male counterparts do not, such as implicit bias and discrimination.
Despite the challenges, women CTOs are making incredible strides in the industry, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations.
The Importance of Diversity in Tech
The rise of women CTOs is just one example of the importance of diversity in the tech industry. When different perspectives are represented at the leadership level, companies can make more informed decisions and develop products that better meet the needs of diverse customer bases.
Here are some key takeaways about the importance of diversity in tech:
- Diversity leads to more innovative solutions and better problem-solving.
- Diverse teams can better understand and meet the needs of diverse customer groups.
- The lack of diversity in tech can lead to products that are biased or exclude certain groups of people.
- Women and other underrepresented groups bring unique perspectives and skill sets to the industry, making it stronger and more competitive.
The rise of women CTOs is just one example of the changing face of the tech industry. As more women enter the field and take on leadership roles, we can expect to see many positive changes, from more innovative products to a more inclusive and diverse industry as a whole. Let us continue to support and celebrate women in tech as they lead the way towards a brighter, more diverse, and more inclusive future.
Women CTOs: Famous Women in Technology
Introduction
The technology industry is often male-dominated. However, women have made commendable strides in the sector, especially in the senior leadership positions. One example of such positions is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO), which is a strategic leadership role responsible for developing and implementing an organization’s technological vision. In this blog post, we will focus on famous women in the technology industry who have served as CTOs.
Famous Women CTOs
Here are some famous women who have served as CTOs:
1. Megan Smith
Megan Smith is a former CTO of the United States, having served between 2014 and 2017. Before her appointment as the CTO, she worked at Google for over a decade, where she served as Vice President of Google[x], a division within the company that focuses on futuristic technology projects.
2. Padmasree Warrior
Padmasree Warrior is an Indian-American businesswoman who has worked in the technology industry for over three decades. She has held executive positions in several technology companies, including Motorola, Cisco Systems, and NIO USA. Between 2013 and 2015, she was the CTO of Cisco Systems.
3. Dr. Vivienne Ming
Dr. Vivienne Ming is a theoretical neuroscientist who also has a background in artificial intelligence. She is the co-founder of Socos Labs, a research institute that applies machine learning and cognitive neuroscience to create solutions for some of society’s most pressing challenges. Dr. Ming has previously served as a CTO in several technology companies.
4. Theresia Gouw
Theresia Gouw is an investor and entrepreneur who has worked in the technology industry for over two decades. She is the co-founder of Acrew Capital, a venture capital firm that invests in technology startups. Before co-founding Acrew Capital, Theresia served as the CTO of Release Software, a technology firm that provides software solutions to healthcare organizations.
5. Dr. Rosalind Picard
Dr. Rosalind Picard is a professor of media arts and sciences at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She is also the founder and director of the Affective Computing Research Group at MIT. Dr. Picard has previously served as a CTO in several technology companies, including Empatica, a company that develops medical wearables.
Benefits of Having Women in CTO Positions
Having women in CTO positions can bring several benefits to an organization, including:
- Increased diversity of thought and perspective, which can lead to better problem-solving and innovation
- Ability to tap into a wider talent pool, including qualified female candidates who may be overlooked for leadership roles in a male-dominated industry
- Improved organizational culture, as research has shown that companies with more diversity tend to have more inclusive and positive work environments
- Enhanced reputation and brand image, as having women in senior leadership positions can demonstrate a company’s commitment to diversity and equality.
Key Takeaways
- Women have made significant strides in the technology industry, including in senior leadership positions such as the CTO role.
- There are several famous women who have served as CTOs, including Megan Smith, Padmasree Warrior, Dr. Vivienne Ming, Theresia Gouw, and Dr. Rosalind Picard.
- Having women in CTO positions can bring several benefits to an organization, including increased diversity of thought, wider talent pool, improved organizational culture, and enhanced reputation.
Famous women in technology who have served as CTOs are a testament to the significant progress made by women in the sector. As the industry evolves, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women in leadership positions. Organizations that prioritize diversity and equality can benefit from the perspectives and innovative ideas that women leaders bring to the table.
Women CTOs: Leading the Way in the Tech Industry
As the tech industry continues to evolve rapidly, more women are stepping up to take leadership roles and challenge the traditional male-dominated culture. One such woman is Carla Harris, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of ADP, a leading provider of human resources management software and services.
Carla Harris: A Trailblazing CTO at ADP
Carla Harris has been at ADP for over three decades, leading the company’s strategic technology initiatives and ensuring that its products and services remain at the forefront of the industry. Here are some key takeaways about Carla Harris and her role as CTO at ADP:
Playing a Pivotal Role in Technology Innovation
Carla Harris has played an instrumental role in driving technology innovation at ADP. She oversees a team of more than 8,000 technology professionals and is responsible for ensuring that the company’s technology platforms are scalable, secure, and meet the needs of its clients.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
As a black woman, Carla Harris has faced numerous challenges in her career, but she has never let that stop her from achieving her goals. She has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, pushing for more women and underrepresented minorities to be given leadership roles and opportunities.
Embracing New Technologies
Carla Harris is passionate about exploring and embracing new technologies that can help ADP better serve its clients and remain competitive. She has been at the forefront of initiatives such as AI and machine learning and is constantly looking for ways to leverage these technologies to drive business value.
Encouraging Mentorship and Career Development
As a leader at ADP, Carla Harris is committed to helping her team members grow and develop in their careers. She has launched a number of mentorship programs and initiatives aimed at providing support and guidance to women and other underrepresented groups in the tech industry.
Carla Harris is just one of many trailblazing women who are breaking down barriers and leading the way in the tech industry. As more and more companies recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion, we can expect to see even more women stepping up to take on leadership roles like that of a CTO. It’s an exciting time for the tech industry, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Girl Geeks: Embracing Diversity in the Tech Industry
In recent years, there has been a push to increase diversity in the tech industry. One group that is often underrepresented in this field is women. However, there is a growing community of “girl geeks” who are paving the way for more representation and inclusivity for women in tech.
Who are Girl Geeks
- Girl geeks are women who are passionate about technology and have a love for all things geeky.
- They are interested in coding, programming, web design, and other tech-related fields.
- Girl geeks come from all backgrounds, and they represent a range of ages and experience levels.
- They share a common goal: to increase diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Bridging the Gender Gap
- Girl geeks are working to break down the barriers that prevent women from entering and excelling in the tech industry.
- They are advocating for equal pay, equal opportunity, and equal representation for women in tech.
- Girl geeks are also raising awareness of the gender bias and discrimination that still exists in the industry.
Resources for Girl Geeks
- There are several organizations and online communities dedicated to supporting and empowering girl geeks, including Girls Who Code, Women Who Code, and Girls in Tech.
- These groups offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources for learning and professional development.
- Girl geeks can also attend tech conferences and events specifically geared toward women in tech, such as the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing.
Inspirational Girl Geeks
- Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, is a trailblazer for women in tech and an advocate for closing the gender gap in the tech industry.
- Kimberly Bryant, founder of Black Girls Code, is working to increase diversity in tech by providing opportunities for girls of color to learn coding and programming skills.
- Tracy Chou, an engineer and advocate for diversity in tech, has been vocal about her experiences with gender bias in the industry and is a prominent spokesperson for the girl geek movement.
Girl geeks are an important part of the movement to increase diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry. By advocating for change, raising awareness, and providing support and resources for women in tech, girl geeks are making progress toward a more equitable and representative workforce. As the tech industry continues to evolve, girl geeks will play a vital role in shaping its future.
Women CTO: How StubHub CTO Susan Standiford is Breaking the Glass Ceiling
When it comes to women in tech leadership positions, there are numerous women who have broken the glass ceiling and made significant strides. One such woman is Susan Standiford, the CTO of StubHub, who has made a name for herself in the tech industry.
The Rise of Susan Standiford
Susan’s rise to the top of StubHub’s tech department is a testament to her incredible ability to lead and innovate. Here is a brief history of her journey:
- Susan began her career in tech at Amazon, where she held various technical and management positions over the course of nine years.
- In 2006, Susan joined Yahoo! as a Senior Vice President of Technology, where she oversaw numerous products, including Yahoo! Mail, Messenger, Flickr, and more.
- In 2010, Susan became the CTO of Zecco Holdings, a financial services company.
- In 2012, Susan joined StubHub as the CTO, where she leads a team of over 500 engineers and technologists.
Susan’s Accomplishments at StubHub
Since joining StubHub, Susan has made significant strides in improving the company’s tech offerings and leading the charge for innovation. Some of her notable accomplishments include:
- Spearheading the creation of StubHub’s mobile app, which has millions of active users.
- Overseeing the development of new features that have made StubHub the go-to ticketing platform for many sports fans and concertgoers.
- Leading a massive tech infrastructure overhaul that has made StubHub’s platform faster and more reliable.
- Fostering a culture of innovation, which has led to numerous successful projects, such as StubHub’s Virtual View technology.
Lessons From Susan Standiford’s Success
There are numerous lessons that aspiring women CTOs can learn from Susan’s incredible success in the tech industry, including:
- Always strive for innovation and improvement: Susan’s dedication to innovation has been a key factor in her success.
- Be a strong leader: Susan’s ability to lead and inspire her team has been crucial in driving StubHub’s success.
- Build a strong tech infrastructure: Susan’s commitment to improving StubHub’s tech infrastructure has made the platform faster and more reliable.
- Foster a culture of innovation: Susan’s focus on fostering a culture of innovation has led to numerous successful projects at StubHub.
Susan Standiford is a true trailblazer for women in tech, and her incredible success as StubHub’s CTO shows that women can achieve great things in the industry. Her commitment to innovation, leadership, and building a strong tech infrastructure are all key lessons that other women CTOs can learn from as they navigate their own careers.
Women CTO: Shattering Glass Ceilings in Tech
As technology continues to advance, the role of CTOs (Chief Technology Officers) in companies becomes more critical. In the past, it was a male-dominated field, but today, more and more women are rising through the ranks to hold this essential position. In this blog post, we will explore the lives of women CTOs and how they are breaking down barriers in tech.
Autodesk CTO: Inspiring Change in the Tech Industry
One of the most prominent women in tech is Erica Brescia, the CTO of Autodesk. Let’s take a closer look at her life and how she is changing the game in the tech industry:
The Road to Becoming Autodesk CTO
Erica Brescia grew up in an entrepreneurial family and developed an early love for programming. After college, she started her own software development company, BitRock, which was later acquired by VMware, where she represented the company on the board of the Linux Foundation. In 2018, she joined Autodesk as the COO of the company’s engineering department. A year later, she was promoted to the position of CTO, where she has been driving innovation and inclusivity within the organization.
Leading with Inclusivity
Erica Brescia understands firsthand the struggles that women face in the technology industry. In response to this, she has taken steps to create a more inclusive environment within Autodesk. Here are some of the measures she has implemented:
- She spearheaded the company’s adoption of open-source software, creating opportunities for independent developers to contribute to Autodesk projects.
- She established a mentorship program to help inspire and guide women in tech and other underrepresented groups.
- She created a Diversity and Inclusion Council, working to ensure that Autodesk’s workforce is reflective of the diverse communities it serves.
Key Takeaways from Erica Brescia’s Journey
Erica Brescia’s journey as Autodesk CTO has been nothing short of inspiring. Here are some of the lessons we can learn from her:
- Be passionate about what you do and follow your dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.
- Embrace inclusivity and use your position to create opportunities for underrepresented groups in the industry.
- Never stop learning and growing, and always be open to new challenges and experiences.
Erica Brescia’s journey as Autodesk CTO shows that women have the skills, knowledge, and passion to be leaders in the tech industry. By breaking down barriers and creating pathways for future generations of women in tech, Erica and other women CTOs are shaping the future of the industry, and inspiring others to do the same. With more women serving in leadership roles and driving innovation, the tech industry is on a path towards inclusivity and diversity.
Women in the CTO Role: Breaking Barriers and Promoting Diversity
As gender disparities continue to persist in the tech industry, more and more women are breaking into leadership roles traditionally held by men. One notable example is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) position, which plays a crucial role in guiding a company’s technology strategy and innovation. In this article, we explore the experiences and achievements of women CTOs, as well as the challenges they face in a male-dominated field.
Starbucks’ Female CTO: Gerri Martin-Flickinger
Gerri Martin-Flickinger is a trailblazer in the tech industry, and one of the most prominent female CTOs in the market. Since joining Starbucks as Chief Technical Officer in 2015, Martin-Flickinger has been responsible for the coffee giant’s global technology and innovation agenda. Here are some key facts and insights about her career and role at Starbucks:
Key Facts
- Martin-Flickinger holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from the University of Illinois, and a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the California Polytechnic State University.
- Before joining Starbucks, she held a number of executive positions at companies like VeriSign, McAfee, Adobe, and Salesforce.com.
- At Starbucks, she oversees a team of more than 1,000 technologists and digital experts, and is responsible for driving the company’s global technology strategy, including the development of new digital ordering and payment systems, mobile apps, and loyalty programs.
- She is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, and has spoken out against issues like unconscious bias, unequal pay, and underrepresentation of women and minorities in senior leadership roles.
Martin-Flickinger’s Role at Starbucks
As Starbucks’ CTO, Martin-Flickinger is a key player in the company’s efforts to innovate and stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market. Here are some of the specific areas she focuses on:
- Digital Innovation: Martin-Flickinger and her team are responsible for developing and executing Starbucks’ digital strategy, which includes the company’s mobile app, online ordering and delivery systems, and loyalty programs. By leveraging emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and IoT, she aims to enhance the customer experience and boost sales.
- Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: In today’s data-driven world, cybersecurity and data privacy are top concerns for consumers and businesses alike. Martin-Flickinger takes these issues seriously, and has implemented measures to protect Starbucks’ data and systems from cyber threats. She also champions greater transparency and control over customers’ data, and has introduced features like the “data transparency tool” to help customers understand how their personal information is being used.
- Product Development: Martin-Flickinger is involved in the development of new products and services, and works closely with other senior leaders across the company to ensure that technology is embedded in all aspects of Starbucks’ operations. For example, she played a key role in the launch of the company’s mobile order and pay system, which has become a major driver of sales and customer satisfaction.
Key Takeaways
As we’ve seen, Gerri Martin-Flickinger is a highly accomplished and influential CTO, whose work at Starbucks has helped the company stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing industry. Some key takeaways from her story include:
- The importance of diversity and inclusion in tech leadership: Martin-Flickinger’s success shows that companies can benefit greatly from having women and other underrepresented groups in leadership roles. By bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, these leaders can help drive innovation and enhance the customer experience.
- The role of technology in business strategy: As the CTO, Martin-Flickinger plays a critical role in shaping Starbucks’ digital future. By staying on top of emerging trends and technologies, and working closely with other senior leaders, she helps the company stay competitive and meet customers’ ever-evolving needs.
- The need for cybersecurity and data privacy: With data breaches and cyber attacks becoming more common, protecting customer data and systems is vital for businesses like Starbucks. Martin-Flickinger’s focus on these issues underscores the importance of taking a proactive, comprehensive approach to cybersecurity and data privacy.
In conclusion, Gerri Martin-Flickinger is a shining example of a talented and dedicated female CTO who is making a real difference in the tech industry. By continuing to break down barriers and promote diversity, she is helping to pave the way for a more inclusive and innovative future.
Top Female CIOs 2020
In recent years, women have broken many barriers in the tech industry and are increasingly occupying top leadership positions. Today, female CIOs are leading some of the biggest and most innovative companies worldwide. In this section, we’ll explore the top female CIOs of the year 2020 and highlight their achievements.
Here are some of the top female CIOs of 2020:
1. Cynthia Stoddard – Adobe
Cynthia Stoddard is the CIO of Adobe, a global software company known for its multimedia and creativity software products. Stoddard has been with Adobe since 2016 and has more than 25 years of experience in the IT industry. She is responsible for leading the company’s global IT organization and driving digital transformation across all business units. Under her leadership, Adobe has become more customer-focused, efficient, and innovative.
2. Aarthi Subramanian – Tata Sons
Aarthi Subramanian is the CIO of Tata Sons, a global conglomerate that operates in over 100 countries, with businesses ranging from automotive to steel production. Subramanian has been with Tata for over three decades and has played a critical role in the company’s digital transformation journey. She is responsible for driving digital initiatives across the group and ensuring that technology supports the company’s overall business objectives.
3. Julie Lagacy – Caterpillar Inc.
Julie Lagacy is the CIO of Caterpillar Inc., a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. Lagacy has been with the company for over 20 years and has held several senior leadership positions. She is responsible for driving technological innovation and digital transformation across all business units. Lagacy has been instrumental in helping Caterpillar Inc. expand its digital offerings and stay ahead of the competition.
4. Archana Deskus – Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Archana Deskus is the CIO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, a multinational enterprise IT company that provides servers, storage, networking, and software solutions. Deskus has more than 25 years of experience and has held several senior positions in various industries. She is responsible for driving HPE’s digital strategy and helping the company scale its operations. Under Deskus’ leadership, HPE has become more customer-centric, streamlined, and efficient.
5. Christine Vanderpool – PwC
Christine Vanderpool is the CIO of PwC, a multinational professional services network of firms. Vanderpool has been with PwC for over two decades and has played a critical role in modernizing the company’s technology infrastructure. She is responsible for implementing digital initiatives across all business units and ensuring that technology supports the company’s overall strategy. Vanderpool is also passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Key Takeaways
- Women are breaking barriers in the tech industry and are increasingly occupying top leadership positions.
- The top female CIOs of 2020 include Cynthia Stoddard from Adobe, Aarthi Subramanian from Tata Sons, Julie Lagacy from Caterpillar Inc., Archana Deskus from Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Christine Vanderpool from PwC.
- These CIOs are responsible for driving technological innovation and digital transformation across their respective companies.
- They are passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Women CTOs: How Many Are There
As the tech industry continues to evolve, there’s been a growing focus on the role of women in tech leadership. While a few women have broken through the glass ceiling to become C-level executives, the numbers are still quite low. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the current state of women in CTO roles.
Exploring the Numbers
- Out of all CTOs, only about 7% are women.
- In tech startups, the number drops down to just 3%.
- The number of women in CTO roles has been slowly increasing, but progress has been slow.
- In 2020, only about 25 Fortune 500 companies had a woman as their CTO.
- On a positive note, the number of women in engineering and technical roles has been increasing steadily.
Why the Numbers Are Low
- The tech industry has a reputation for being male-dominated, which can be discouraging for women who are interested in entering leadership roles.
- There are still gender biases that exist in hiring processes and promotions. Women are often passed over for leadership positions due to a lack of perceived experience or qualifications.
- The tech industry has been slow to address issues such as equal pay, family leave policies, and other factors that can make it difficult for women to advance in their careers.
The Importance of Women in CTO Roles
- Women bring valuable perspectives to tech leadership roles that can help companies innovate and stay competitive.
- Gender diversity has been shown to improve overall team performance and increase creativity.
- Having more women in leadership roles can help to inspire the next generation of women in tech and break down barriers to entry.
While progress has been slow, there are signs that the industry is starting to recognize the value of women in tech leadership roles. By continuing to support women in technical fields and addressing issues such as gender bias, the tech industry can work towards greater gender diversity at all levels.
Is CTO a High Position
Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is one of the most senior and prestigious positions an individual can aspire to in the technology industry. CTOs are responsible for leading a company’s technological innovation and driving the company’s growth and success. A CTO is also responsible for the company’s overall technology strategy, which is an essential aspect of any successful organization that wants to stay ahead of its competitors.
Here are some points to consider when evaluating whether CTO is a high position:
CTOs Have a High Level of Responsibility
As mentioned, the CTO is a senior executive who is responsible for overseeing a company’s technological innovation. This means that they are responsible for ensuring that the company is using the latest and most advanced technologies to remain ahead of the competition. They must also ensure that the company’s technology is secure and reliable, as well as efficient and cost-effective.
CTOs Earn a High Salary
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a CTO is over $160,000 per year. This is a high salary, and it reflects the level of responsibility that comes with this position.
CTOs Are Highly Respected
CTOs are highly respected in the tech industry, and their opinions and decisions carry a lot of weight. They are often invited to speak at conferences and events, and they are seen as thought leaders in the field.
CTOs Are in High Demand
There is currently a shortage of qualified individuals to fill CTO positions, which has led to high demand and competition for these roles. This means that those who are qualified for the position can often choose from multiple job offers and negotiate for higher salaries.
CTOs Have a High Level of Job Satisfaction
According to a survey conducted by Computerworld, CTOs have one of the highest levels of job satisfaction in the tech industry. This is likely due to the high level of responsibility, the high salary, and the respect that comes with the position.
In conclusion, CTO is a high position in the tech industry. With a high level of responsibility, a high salary, and a high level of respect and demand, it’s no wonder that this position is so highly sought after. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a CTO, you’ll need to work hard, stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, and be prepared to take on significant responsibilities.
How Old is the Average Women CTO
When it comes to discussing age demographics among Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), the conversation can be somewhat complicated, as there are various factors to consider, such as industry type, experience level, and geographic location. However, we can attempt to provide a general overview of the age range for women CTOs based on available statistics and studies.
The Average Age Range for Women CTOs
According to a study conducted by Harvey Nash, the average age range for CTOs in general is between 40-50 years old, with many achieving their first CTO role in their mid-forties. While specific data for women CTOs is more difficult to come by, some statistics reveal that the average age of women who are employed in technology-related positions falls within this same age range.
Factors that Affect Age
It’s important to note that there are a variety of factors that can influence the age of women who hold a CTO position. Some of these factors include:
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Industry: The technology industry is known for being youth-centric, but the age range of CTOs can vary depending on the specific industry (e.g., healthcare technology, fintech, edtech, etc.).
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Geographic Location: The age range for women CTOs can also vary depending on the location of the company, as different regions may have different hiring practices or cultural expectations that can affect age demographics.
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Experience: Experience plays a significant role in determining the age range of women CTOs. Often, women who have been working in positions related to technology for a long time accumulate the experience needed to take on CTO roles as they progress in their careers.
While there’s no single answer to the question of how old the average women CTO is, we can conclude that the age range for CTOs in general falls between 40-50 years old and that various factors can influence the age range for women who hold CTO positions. Ultimately, the most important factor is whether or not a woman has the experience, expertise, and leadership skills necessary to excel in this role, regardless of age.
60 Female CTOs to Watch in 2023
There has been a significant increase in the number of women pursuing a career in technology, and this is evident in the rise of female chief technology officers (CTOs). In this section, we will be introducing you to 60 female CTOs who are making waves in the industry and who you should watch out for in 2023.
Established Leaders
These female CTOs are already making strides in their respective organizations and are known for their innovative ideas and leadership skills.
- Alaina Percival: CTO at Women Who Code
- Angela Yochem: CTO at Novant Health
- Ayda Sanver: CTO at CEMEX Ventures
- Cathy Polinsky: CTO at Stitch Fix
- Cheryl Porro: CTO at Thrive Global
- Debra Jensen: CTO at Diversified Technical Systems
- Debora Falconer: CTO at Hitachi Vantara
- Dorit Dor: CTO at Check Point Software
- Emi Kolawole: CTO at The Guardian
- Eva Fors: CTO at Volvo Cars
- Ginger Mosier: CTO at Bay Federal Credit Union
- Jennifer Tejada: CTO at PagerDuty
- Jill Wetzler: CTO at Alteryx
- Jo Lambert: CTO at HouseSimple
- Jocelyn Goldfein: CTO at Zulily
- Karenann Terrell: CTO at Johnson & Johnson
- Kathy McElligott: CTO at McKesson
- Kimberly Anstett: CTO at IronNet Cybersecurity
- Lakshmi Hanspal: CTO at Box
- Laura Mather: CTO at Silver Tail Systems
- Lena Smart: CTO at MongoDB
- Linda Jojo: CTO at United Airlines
- Maria G. Arias: CTO at JPMorgan Chase
- Monique Shivanandan: CTO at Aviva
- Pam Murphy: CTO at Infor
- Robin Bienfait: CTO at Samsung
- Samantha Snabes: CTO at Re:3D, Inc.
- Sara Armbruster: CTO at Steelcase
- Sara Ford: CTO at Microsoft
- Sarah Butterfass: CTO at Morningstar
Rising Stars
These female CTOs are relatively new to their roles but are quickly gaining recognition for their expertise and accomplishments.
- Anna M. Christiano: CTO at McKinsey & Company
- Asaf Somekh: CTO at Iguazio
- Crystal Valentine: CTO at MapR Technologies
- Dana Lawson: CTO at GitHub
- Denise Persson: CTO at Snowflake
- Dipti Patel-Misra: CTO at Microsoft
- Elena Grewal: CTO at DataBricks
- Heather Ames Versace: CTO at Neurala
- Jill Sangha: CTO at Argonne National Laboratory
- Katie Womersley: CTO at Buffer
- Kristen Pascucci: CTO at ThoughtWorks
- Kristina Confesor: CTO at Trading Technologies
- Laura Toma: CTO at SnapLogic
- Michelle Dufty: CTO at Esri
- Nandini Ramani: CTO at Outcome Health
- Narges Bani Asadi: CTO at Bina Technologies, Inc.
- Priya Balasubramaniam: CTO at Deloitte
- Reshma Saujani: CTO at Girls Who Code
- Shobana Radhakrishnan: CTO at Aspire Systems
- Sondra Scott: CTO at Cerner Corporation
- Tanya Cordrey: CTO at Food52
- Thasunda Brown Duckett: CTO at JPMorgan Chase
- Tulika Bose: CTO at CMS Experiment
Key Takeaways
- The number of female CTOs is on the rise, indicating a positive shift towards gender diversity in the technology industry.
- The above-listed CTOs are some of the most prominent and accomplished female tech leaders in the world.
- As the industry evolves, it’s important to keep an eye on rising stars who are making significant strides in their respective organizations.
In summary, these female CTOs are trailblazers in the technology industry, and their accomplishments and leadership skills are essential for inspiring more women to pursue careers in technology. As we look forward to 2023, these women will undoubtedly continue to make a significant impact on the industry, and it will be exciting to follow their path to success.
What Percentage of CTOs are Female
As the tech industry continues to grow, the number of chief technology officers (CTOs) is also increasing. However, women remain underrepresented in this field, which raises the question: what percentage of CTOs are female? Let’s take a closer look:
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According to the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), women hold only 25 percent of all computing-related occupations. This figure includes CTOs.
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The same NCWIT report notes that only 5 percent of leadership positions in the technology industry are held by women. While this statistic doesn’t refer specifically to CTOs, it provides some context for the larger issue of gender inequality in tech.
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A 2019 study conducted by Honeypot found that only 9 percent of CTOs in the United States are female. This number may be discouraging, but it’s worth noting that it represents a slight increase from previous years.
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In contrast, a report from Harvey Nash and KPMG found that roughly 10 percent of global CIO (chief information officer) roles are held by women. While this doesn’t speak directly to the number of female CTOs, it does suggest that women are making some headway in executive-level technology positions.
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Some specific companies have made strides toward gender diversity in their CTO roles. For example, in 2019, Airbnb hired its first female CTO, Vanessa Pappas. Other companies with female CTOs include Intel, Adobe, and IBM.
While it’s clear that women remain underrepresented in CTO positions, it’s important to note that progress is being made. Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusivity in their hiring practices are more likely to cultivate a diverse leadership team, which can lead to better business outcomes and a more inclusive workplace culture.
Key Takeaways
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Women hold only 25 percent of all computing-related occupations, which includes CTO positions.
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Globally, only around 10 percent of CIO roles are held by women.
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In the United States, approximately 9 percent of CTOs are female.
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Despite this underrepresentation, some companies have made strides toward gender diversity in their CTO roles.
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Prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in hiring can lead to a more diverse leadership team and better business outcomes.
Overall, the question of what percentage of CTOs are female is a complicated one with no easy answers. While women are still underrepresented in this field, there is reason for optimism as more companies prioritize diversity and inclusivity.
