Women in tech: An inclusive community for women technologists

More women than ever before are graduating with tech degrees, but nationally, there still isn’t equal representation in leadership roles. One group is trying to change the landscape of tech for the betterment of all. The Women in Tech (WIT) Business Resource Group (BRG) at Capital One is the place for female technologists to connect, thrive and inspire future generations. Representation matters and this group creates a space for women to see—and take hold of—leadership opportunities in the exciting tech career field.

WIT has local chapters in ten cities, with smaller sub-groups for various interests, engaging women near and far. And it’s one of many BRGs; some are specific to Tech, while others are for women across Capital One (shout out to empowHER!).

A supportive space for women technologists to grow their careers

Roshni, Master Software Engineer, enjoys the range of opportunities that the group provides and the ways it helps her grow in her career. She shared “Capital One has a great support system for Women in Tech where women are provided with several opportunities. This forum has helped me to develop a leadership mindset, build my network and advance my career via various mentoring programs.”

When Lula transitioned into the tech organization at Capital One, WIT offered a supportive environment right away and gave her a sense of belonging. “I was new in tech, so one of the first things I did was join the Women in Tech BRG,” says Lula, Change Manager. “It was one of the best decisions that I've made because I immediately found a group and a circle where I could ask questions and understand the lay of the land and how things worked. It was really essential in getting me acclimated to the tech organization.” Starting a new role can be challenging but it's much easier when you have a support system to rely on, ask for guidance and learn from.

And it can also serve as a space to connect and grow your knowledge and understanding. “I wanted an opportunity to have a network of like-minded women who were focused on technology and hear what they are working on,” says Diana, Senior Manager. “I think there's power in connection. And the only way to get that is through having conversation and dialogue. It’s a community where you can ask, ‘How are you being mentored?’ ‘How are you cultivating your career?’ ‘How are you finding your voice as a female in technology?’”

Women in Tech focused events that inspire and celebrate

WIT programming inspires its members through relevant events, workshops and training. In 2020, the all-virtual WIT Experience (WITx) internal conference included internal and external speakers, such as Reshma Saujani, Founder and CEO of Girls Who Code; and Morgan DeBaun, Founder and CEO of Blavity, Inc. The events were designed to develop, elevate and inspire Women in Tech and allies, while fostering an inclusive environment where all can thrive and succeed.

Shaping the future of women in tech

Not only does the BRG offer community and learning for women at Capital One, the impact extends into the wider community with the goal of getting girls interested in the tech space. Seeing professional women in tech shows girls that there is a path for them.

“WIT provides opportunities to work with schools and young girls in coding programs,” says Lula. “Just seeing women in tech shows young girls that there is a future in technology and that it’s an option for them. It sparks the idea into future generations that tech is a space for women.”