Information and communication technology (ICT) is one of Switzerland's most dynamic growth sectors. Innovation, digitization and new technologies are rapidly changing our working world. But while the industry is booming, one thing stands out in particular: Women are still significantly underrepresented in ICT.

Share of women in ICT: Where are we today?

According to the Federal Statistical Office (BFS), the proportion of women in the ICT sector in recent years was just over 20%. In 2022, out of a total of around 140,000 employees in the ICT sector, only 33,000 women worked. This means that four out of five ICT professionals are male — that is a significant imbalance that we must overcome together.

Why promoting women is so important

Digitalization will fundamentally change our society in the coming decades. The ICT sector is actively shaping this future, offering numerous exciting, creative and well-paid career opportunities. It is therefore crucial that all genders participate in this development on an equal footing and help shape it.

A diverse, inclusive work environment is not a “nice-to-have” — it is a driver of innovation. Different perspectives promote creative solutions, strengthen teams and lead to better results.

Numerous initiatives such as Girls Who Code, Women in Tech and the Ada Lovelace Festivals are committed to getting girls and women excited about technology. Successful women such as Sheryl Sandberg (Meta), Susan Wojcicki (former CEO of YouTube) or Reshma Saujani (founder of Girls Who Code) show that the tech world is no longer just a field for men.

In Switzerland, too, personalities such as Anna Fontcuberta i Morral (President of EPFL), Bea Knecht (Founder of Zattoo) and Vanessa Gentile (Salesforce, Founder of Bring Women Back to Work) are shaping the tech and innovation scene and serve as strong role models.

What needs to change

For Basel and Switzerland to successfully shape digital transformation, a targeted campaign is needed for more women in ICT. This includes:

• Early funding: Get girls excited about technology even at primary and secondary levels.
• Role models and mentoring: Visible women in the tech sector who inspire and support.
• corporate culture: Flexible working hours, equal opportunities and diversity programs must become standard.
• networks: Platforms that connect women and make their successes visible.

A joint path into the future

The digital world belongs to all of us — or at least should. The opportunities offered by the ICT sector are too great to be left to just a section of society. Basel, with its unique mix of research, technology and innovation, can play a pioneering role here.

BaselTech wants to drive precisely this change forward. With programs, networks and events, we are committed to ensuring that women are not only represented in ICT, but also become a driving force in the industry. Because only when all perspectives are included can a sustainable, fair and innovative digital society be created.

Would you like to be part of this change? Then connect with us at BaselTech — and actively shape the digital future.