As a company dedicated to utilising the latest technology – and in our case, artificial intelligence (AI) – Augment Technologies is heavily involved in the constantly evolving tech industry.
 
The key to keeping up with this rapid evolution is to have diversity within the team, enabling solutions to be considered from different perspectives.
 
As Augment's first female hire, I've identified effective strategies for increasing female participation in the tech sector. Recognising the traditional challenges faced by women in this domain, we've embraced strategies that are making tangible differences – from creating flexible work environments that respect personal commitments to fostering communities where women can thrive in technology.
 
At Augment, our commitment to flexibility is more than a policy; it's a culture. As a remote-first company, we've broken down traditional barriers, offering our team the autonomy to balance their professional and personal lives seamlessly. This approach is particularly beneficial for women, who often navigate the tightrope between career aspirations and family responsibilities.
 
Women make up less than a third of the tech industry's workforce around the world, and while this is slowly starting to rise, more needs to be done by advocates for gender equality. This situation highlights the importance of initiatives aimed at empowering women in this field.
 
In Perth, female coding communities have become a lifeline for support and inclusion. My role in starting the Perth PyLadies chapter and participating in communities such as GPN (Girls Programming Network) and SheCodes is driven by a vision to create safe spaces for women to learn, grow, and share their experiences in tech. These platforms are not just about coding; they're about empowering women with the confidence to navigate and excel in a traditionally male-dominated field.
 
The role of mentorship cannot be overstated in this endeavour. Having female role models and mentors in tech is crucial for guiding and inspiring the next generation of women in STEM. With mentoring programs for both university students and in collaboration with PyLadies, Augment is leading the way as a strong advocate for women in tech.
 
Augment is dedicated to supporting women in STEM through these initiatives. We believe that by providing flexible working conditions, encouraging education through female-centric coding programs, and fostering a strong mentorship culture, we can make a significant impact. Our goal is not only to celebrate the achievements of women in tech but also to help reduce the gender disparity in this field.
 
As we look forward to a future where women are equally represented in STEM fields, let's remember that every step we take towards inclusivity and support makes a difference. Together, we can create a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant tech community.