Awards to celebrate women working in technology

KEVIN SCOTT

WOMEN working in Scotland’s thriving tech sectors are to be recognised at a new awards event.

The inaugural Scotland Women in Technology Awards is backed by JP Morgan and Amazon and being held this autumn in Glasgow, with 10 categories being contested.

Among these categories are the Inspirational Woman of the Year and Gender Diversity Champion of the Year, as well as awards for teachers, rising stars and innovators.

Digital Technology is one of the fastest growing industries in Scotland yet Skills Development Scotland has reported that fewer than one in five of those employed in the sector is female.

Polly Purvis, chief executive of Scotland IS, and member of the awards judging panel, said: “The technology industry offers so many opportunities for women, and we have some wonderful role models, but they tend not have a high profile.

“These awards celebrate women in a variety of roles which are helping build a vibrant, thriving industry which is central to the success of the Scottish economy in the 21st century.”

Talat Yaqoob, director of Equate Scotland said: “Given this is the fastest growing global industry, Scotland needs the best and brightest minds to remain competitive on the world stage, we cannot afford for girls and women to be held back by stereotypes and inequality. These awards are an opportunity to highlight the women leading the way in Scotland and inspire others to follow them into a great career.”

Stephen Flaherty, of JP Morgan Glasgow technology centre, said: “JP Morgan’s technology presence in Scotland has grown substantially over the past decade and the importance of having a vibrant workforce should never be underestimated.

“These awards showcase the female talent we have in Scotland and highlight the importance of continuing to increase the participation of women in digital technology.”