Tech is a trillion dollar industry. Those employed in this sector of the American workforce make more than double the national median wage and that number is expected to continue its tick upward. But while jobs in this field are lucrative, Black women, one of the most educated demographics in the United States, continue to be underrepresented at tech companies.
In recent years tech companies have attempted to be more transparent with their diversity numbers and hiring practices, but reports have shown little progress has been made in actually closing the hiring gap. While there are apparent issues in the pipeline to these high-paying jobs, Black women in positions within the tech field still feel under supported among a field of faces that don’t look like them. In addition, tech entrepreneurs, like a multitude of Black women, face an uphill battle when seeking funding for their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Organizations like Facebook, Google and Microsoft have all made commitments to change the information technology landscape, and so has Black Women Talk Tech (BWTT). This collective of Black women tech founders are attempting to diversify the industry from the inside by using their unique understanding of the challenges Black women startup owners face. Last week BWTT held its 5th Annual Roadmap to Billions conference, with participants logging in virtually to hear from key stakeholders in the growing field.
Outside of informative sessions, BWTT gave attendees the opportunity for employment recruiting, and the chance at $50,000 in cash prizes. This group of women understands the contribution of innovators and are seeking to “identify, support, and encourage” Black women to build the next billion-dollar business. With chapters in Atlanta, Georgia, New York City, and San Francisco, they are making a considerable impact and touching Black women all across the nation.
With Workshops like “The Art of Getting S— Done” and Real Talk: Tech Career Advice from the Pros, it was clear that The Roadmap to Billions conference was built from the perspective of Black women for Black women.
