Culture of Women in Tech: An Unsuitable Job for a Woman

Including a series of commentaries derived from research undertaken by the author with women working in tech clusters located within 'tech cities' in the UK, USA and East Asia regions, this book exposes the serious 'problem' of women's position in the tech industry and helps to find solutions and ways forward.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2019
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

This comprehensive book delves into a critical analysis of the contemporary and global tech culture, unveiling the pervasive gender bias inherent in masculine tech ideology and stereotypes. It explores the complex dynamics surrounding the place of women in the tech sector, challenging the notion that their presence is immovable from masculine leadership practices. By examining the rise of entrepreneurial work and leadership, the contemporary urban setting of global tech work, and the specific challenges faced by women in tech clusters, the book offers a profound exploration of the cultural, social, personal, and economic consequences of gender as a point of difference in the context of work in the tech industry.

Mariann Hardey, the author, takes a deep dive into these critical issues, examining the rise of entrepreneurial work and leadership, the contemporary urban landscape of global tech work, and the unique challenges faced by women in tech clusters. Through a series of commentaries based on research conducted in tech cities across the UK, USA, and East Asia regions, the book sheds light on the pervasive problem of women's position in the industry. While it remains steadfast in its critical examination of masculine tech ideology, prejudices, and stereotypes, it also contributes to the growing chorus of voices calling for solutions and ways forward.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the rise of entrepreneurial work and leadership, which has transformed the tech industry. Hardey argues that the traditional hierarchical structures of corporate employment are giving way to a more decentralized and collaborative approach, where individuals and small teams are taking on innovative projects and driving growth. This shift has created new opportunities for women to enter the tech sector and build successful careers, but it has also brought with it challenges related to gender bias and stereotypes.

In the contemporary urban setting of global tech work, women often face unique challenges that their male counterparts do not. For example, they may be underrepresented in leadership positions, receive lower pay and fewer opportunities for advancement, and face a higher risk of sexual harassment and discrimination. Hardey explores these issues in depth, drawing on research and personal experiences to shed light on the experiences of women in the tech industry.

One of the book's most powerful aspects is its engagement with attempts by women to establish and sustain their professional status and long-term careers in the face of predatory social media trolling and inappropriate sexualized behavior. Hardey highlights the experiences of women who have faced these challenges and the strategies they have employed to overcome them, including advocating for change within their organizations, building networks of support, and seeking legal recourse when necessary.

Through its comprehensive analysis, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics surrounding the place of women in the tech sector. It challenges the notion that their presence is immovable from masculine leadership practices and highlights the need for systemic change to promote gender equality and diversity in the industry. The book also contributes to recent calls for action to address the gender gap in tech, including initiatives to promote mentorship programs, increase funding for women-led startups, and implement policies to prevent sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the gender bias of masculine tech ideology and stereotypes and the challenges faced by women in the tech sector. It offers a critical analysis of the contemporary and global tech culture, shedding light on the cultural, social, personal, and economic consequences of gender as a point of difference in the context of work. By engaging with the experiences of women in the tech industry and advocating for change, this book contributes to the growing movement toward a more inclusive and equitable tech sector for all.

Weight: 256g
Dimension: 195 x 124 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789734263