How Technology Is Empowering Women in the Workforce

The presence of women in the labor market has grown substantially over recent decades. A joint report by the OECD and the International Labour Organization in 2024 revealed that female employment reached its highest rate after the COVID‑19 pandemic, largely driven by technological advancements and digital transformation (OECD Employment Outlook). Today, technology is not only transforming industries but also breaking down long-held stereotypes about what it takes to succeed in the tech world.

Shifting the Narrative: It’s Not Just About Coding

Ingrid Barth, an expert in Open Banking and CEO and co-founder of PilotIn, explains that technology has the power to attract women by demonstrating that working in tech does not require the sole skill of coding. “There’s a persistent stigma that if you want to work with technology, you must be a programmer. This misconception limits the talent pool and discourages many women from pursuing careers in tech,” Barth stated. With decades of experience in the field and as the first woman to serve as President of Abstartups (the Brazilian Startup Association). Barth believes that technology environments benefit from a diverse array of expertise.

By broadening the definition of tech roles to include data analysis, digital strategy, user experience design, and cybersecurity, companies can harness skills that many women already possess or are eager to develop. According to recent data from McKinsey & Company, female representation in technology roles has risen over the years, demonstrating that diverse teams foster creativity and better decision-making (McKinsey Diversity Insights).

Expanding Opportunities with Open Finance and Artificial Intelligence

The emergence of Open Finance, an evolution of Open Banking, is another promising avenue to enhance women’s participation in the digital economy. Initiated by the Central Bank of Brazil, Open Finance enables the secure sharing of financial data between institutions, thereby offering consumers a comprehensive view of their financial landscape. “When institutions have a 360° view of a customer’s financial life, they can tailor products and services more effectively. This level of insight not only benefits the user but also opens up numerous career opportunities in financial technology,” Barth explained.

Moreover, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a crucial ally in turning raw data into actionable insights. AI-driven tools are already being used to improve decision-making, optimize business processes, and even personalize customer interactions. “AI enables us to convert vast amounts of data into practical solutions, helping both businesses and individuals thrive,” Barth added. Financial institutions and fintech startups are increasingly leveraging AI to refine their offerings, a shift that simultaneously creates new roles in data science, machine learning, and digital customer engagement.

Looking Ahead: Building a More Inclusive Tech Landscape

As technology continues to reshape industries worldwide, fostering an inclusive environment becomes essential. Initiatives like Open Finance and the application of AI are not only driving innovation but also dismantling outdated stereotypes about tech careers. By broadening the scope of roles available in the digital sector, companies can tap into a vast reservoir of talent, driving growth and competitiveness in an increasingly digital economy.

For organizations looking to stay ahead, investing in diversity and digital skills training is critical. Resources such as Harvard Business Review provide insightful strategies for integrating diversity into corporate culture, further underlining the importance of an inclusive workforce in today’s fast-evolving technological landscape.

Technology is more than a tool, it’s a catalyst for change that can help bridge gender gaps in the workforce and empower women to seize new opportunities. As we continue to innovate and break barriers, it is clear that technology is paving the way for a more inclusive, dynamic, and prosperous future for all.