Knowing that computer science careers are male dominant, what are women's intake on their work experience working with mostly men and did they ever have to omit an idea for a project because they felt intimidated by men in their group?
I was educated with the facts that the computer science population consists of 80% male. It may seem like a blessing to be one of the 20% of women to make a change and have a voice in the technology field, but to other women, it may seem a bit intimidating. What are some of your personal intakes? #computer #technology #computer-engineering
5 answers
Nicole’s Answer
Love this question!! Depending on your desired career, I share that it isn't only in the area of computer science where their tends to be more men than women. My experience has been that my willingness to share and idea for a project, for instance, was driven by what is sometimes referred to as "the culture" of the team I was in. Sometimes team culture is different from corporate culture. Sometimes those differences mean that your team is more accepting of ideas from all team members, as compared to the overall corporate environment. Sometimes those differences mean that your team is less accepting of ideas from all team members, as compared to the overall corporate environment.
Given the balancing act I have experienced, I ground myself on being as excellent as I can be to support the task or project at hand. Sometimes that earns personal recognition and sometimes it doesn't but what happens, over time, is your work, particularly if it results in success, and your reputation build in a positive way. When that happens, then more people want to hear your thoughts and ideas because you have given yourself a chance to build a career where the foundation of your career is exceptional. Just like any other growth journey, the more positive outcomes you experience, the more confident you become...and the less you are intimidated, regardless of who is on your team, at the table or in the room.
I wish you the very best of luck!
Frank’s Answer
Well, I'm not a woman; however, I can say that this branch of engineering is not anywhere near as male dominated as the others. I have had several very talented female managers, with whom I would work again at a moment's notice.
Incidentally, for the first time in it's history, the new ACM (member elected) board of directors is all woman. Don't let folks tell you no. Ever.
Brandi’s Answer
It's difficult at times. I find I have to walk a fine line: Be assertive, not aggressive; be confident, not threatening; be passionate, not emotional, and so on. It is certainly possible to be successful, but it takes a special type of attitude in my opinion. I feel like that's the advantage that a man has over a women, for all of the negatives I listed above are seen through a different lens when coming from men.
Women have advantages, too, of course. Women bring fresh perspectives and ideas to a male dominated workplace. Because of this, they have the potential to cause big meaningful change in a small amount of time. In fact, a recent study found that women make better managers than men.
Anita’s Answer
It is definitely a male dominated arena, and it is understandable how that can be intimidating. Being a woman has worked to my advantage and appreciated in some places, and not really at others. I would say, it depends on the culture of the company and the specific group you work in.
Lisa’s Answer
Hi - I've worked in technology for years. While I do enjoy working with men, I also find more and more women in the field as time goes on. I have found that if you are prepared and maintain a professional, but friendly demeanor ... or perhaps more stern if the situation warrants it, then people will take you seriously and welcome you into the group. Being prepared could be preparing for a meeting before hand, or potentially doing research on topics that you are not familiar enough with. Also, always follow through on any commitments made. People will take you seriously, and I'm sure will want you on their team!