FDM everywoman in Technology Awards

The FDM everywoman in Technology Awards recognise women who are changing the concept of technology in the UK. They aim to encourage a greater number of women to work in tech, driving awareness of career opportunities, as well as showcasing the breadth and diversity of talent contributed by women in tech across all industries. They aim to discover the most inspiring female role models within the sector, and motivate other women to pursue a career in STEM..

Since the awards launched in 2011, there have been huge advances made in the technology sector to achieve gender balance. Between 2015-2017, there has been an increase of 25% in the number of women holding management roles in STEM industries[1]. Plus, digital employment requirements are predicted to increase by 5.4% by 2020, creating even more opportunities for women to advance in tech[2]. However, a recent study published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) discovered that young women still lack the confidence to pursue careers in technology after studying STEM subjects at school[3]. This is considered to be the main reason for the ongoing gender gap in STEM industries. The awards aim to change this by encouraging young women to excel in STEM subjects beyond their studies and into long-term careers within the technology sector.

Maxine Benson MBE, co-founder of everywoman, commented “Seven years ago we began to showcase the exceptional women working in technology in response to the industry’s concern over a lack of female talent and role models. Today we are delighted to see the gender divide closing, but despite this our Awards continue to play an important part in celebrating role models at every stage of the journey from students up to senior leaders. The calibre and quality of this year’s nominations was impressive with all those nominated demonstrating a commitment to making a difference not only within their organisations but within local communities, schools and the future of the technology sector.” 

The categories include:

Rising Star Award: This is awarded to a woman aged under 26 who is excelling in her technology career, making a valuable contribution to her organisation.

Team Leader Award: This is awarded to a woman whose team leadership has greatly contributed to the organisation’s success. She is leading a team of up to 100 employees.

Software Engineer Award: This is awarded to a woman who has made a significant difference to the art of software engineering. She has built something new, shifted the art of the possible and is moving the profession forward.

The One to Watch Award: This is awarded to an individual aged under 20 who is actively encouraging girls to study STEM subjects at school-level. This award seeks to identify young game-changers and is open to inspirational students or apprentices

Leader Award: This is awarded to the woman operating in a senior technology role within her organisation. She will be making a contribution to the strategic direction of the business. She is leading a team of over 100 employees.

Academic Award: This is awarded to a woman in academia who has made an outstanding contribution to technology and science and whose work has made or has the potential to make a significant long-term impact in STEM. This could include using technology to enhance and support research and teaching, achieving technological breakthroughs or leveraging one’s position to significantly encourage more talent into stem subjects.

Start-up Founder of the Year Award: This is awarded to the most inspirational female founder of a start-up business (under 18 months old).

Innovator Award: This is awarded to a woman designing, developing, researching, implementing or being exceptionally creative with technology in an unconventional and innovative way.

Entrepreneur Award: This is awarded to an owner/operator of a technology business whose vision and talent will inspire others to start their own technology related venture.

Digital Star Award: This is awarded to a woman who is excelling in a digital role. This could include innovative digital content, social media, web development or developing online solutions.

Inspiration Award: This is awarded to an individual, male or female, for their active commitment to encouraging, advancing, sponsoring or championing the progress of women working in technology.