Audience members had plenty of questions for the panelists; one attendee asked, “Have any of your experiences been shaped by the fact you’re a woman?” Hippo began, “Overwhelmingly people are supportive. Don’t be afraid to fire your boss and move on. Never give those people credit for your success; you succeed in spite of them, not because of them.”
Fontana added, “One of the most refreshing changes I’ve seen is I used to be the only woman around. I felt isolated, but it has become a more inclusive environment. I used to have imposter syndrome because I wasn’t geeky.” Omay agreed, “Things are moving for the better. There have been great improvements.” With women often pushed into roles that are stereotypically feminine, the panelists encouraged students and seasoned workers alike to speak up, educate when they are able, and take charge.
The reality women in tech face is a gender pay gap and people discouraging them around every corner, but as these three female tech powerhouses demonstrated, the world of technology is heading in a more positive, inclusive direction.