why we should diversify tech
Tags: programming, discuss, diversity, inclusion
Published: 2023-03-14 21:47:35

As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in our lives, it's crucial that the industry reflects the diversity of the people it serves. Unfortunately, tech has a long way to go in terms of diversity and inclusion. The good news is that progress is being made, and there are steps we can take to make tech more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

As someone with Aspergers and physical disabilities who has achieved a degree, a leadership position in tech, and is working towards a masters I understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities that exist in this space. In this blog post, I'll be sharing my experiences and insights on how we can make tech more diverse and inclusive, and why it's so important to do so.

Here are some of the key talking points I'll be covering:

-The benefits of diversity in tech, both in terms of innovation and social responsibility

-The barriers that exist for people with disabilities and underrepresented groups in tech, and how we can overcome them

-The role of mentorship and community in supporting diverse talent in tech

-The importance of advocating for change within the industry 
and holding companies accountable for their diversity and 
inclusion efforts

Through my own experiences and research, I'm confident that we can make meaningful progress in creating a more inclusive and diverse tech industry. So let's dive in and explore how we can work together to achieve this important goal.


## The benefits of diversity in tech, both in terms of innovation and social responsibility
 
Diversity in tech has been proven time and time again to drive innovation and creativity. When people with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences come together, they can bring a wealth of unique ideas and solutions to the table. This leads to more diverse and effective products and services that can better serve the needs of a wider range of users. By embracing diversity in tech, companies can also tap into new markets and increase their competitive advantage.

In addition to fostering innovation, promoting diversity in tech is also a matter of social responsibility. Technology plays a critical role in shaping our society and impacting the lives of people around the world. By creating technology that reflects the diversity of its users and includes a wide range of perspectives, we can build a more equitable and inclusive future. This means addressing the biases that exist within technology and working to overcome the systemic barriers that have historically excluded underrepresented groups from participating in tech.

Ultimately, promoting diversity in tech is not only a matter of improving the industry's bottom line, but also of creating a more just and equitable world. By promoting diversity and inclusion in tech, we can empower a wider range of voices and perspectives to shape the technology that shapes our lives. This requires a concerted effort from individuals, companies, and the industry as a whole, but the benefits are clear. By embracing diversity and inclusion, we can create technology that truly serves the needs of everyone.

 
## The barriers that exist for people with disabilities and underrepresented groups in tech, and how we can overcome them

Despite the numerous benefits of diversity in tech, there are still significant barriers that prevent people with disabilities and underrepresented groups from fully participating in the industry. One major barrier is a lack of access to education and training. Without proper education and training, individuals from underrepresented groups may lack the necessary skills to enter and succeed in the tech industry. Similarly, people with disabilities may face additional challenges due to inaccessible education and training programs. To overcome this barrier, we need to invest in educational programs that are accessible and inclusive, and actively work to create pathways for underrepresented groups to enter the tech industry.

Another major barrier to diversity in tech is the prevalence of bias and discrimination. Studies have shown that people from underrepresented groups often face bias and discrimination in the hiring process, as well as on the job. This can include everything from unconscious bias in resume screening to outright discrimination in hiring and promotion decisions. Similarly, people with disabilities may face stigma and discrimination due to misconceptions about their abilities. To overcome this barrier, we need to actively work to address bias and discrimination in the industry, and create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.

Finally, another major barrier to diversity in tech is a lack of representation in leadership positions. Without diverse representation in leadership, companies may not prioritize diversity and inclusion in their hiring and business practices. This lack of representation can also create a lack of role models for underrepresented groups, making it more difficult for them to envision themselves succeeding in the industry. To overcome this barrier, we need to actively work to promote diversity in leadership positions, and create opportunities for underrepresented groups to develop their skills and advance in their careers.

As someone who has not personally encountered barriers to education or faced discrimination in my last two jobs, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunities to succeed in the tech industry. However, I am acutely aware of the challenges that others may face and the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in tech. As a tech lead, I recognize that it is my responsibility to prioritize inclusion in every aspect of my work, from hiring and team building to product development and company culture.

Even though I have been lucky to not experience barriers myself, I know that this is not the case for everyone. I have seen firsthand how a lack of diversity can lead to homogenous thinking and missed opportunities for innovation. This is why I am committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and bring their unique perspectives to the table. I recognize that this is an ongoing process that requires constant effort and attention, but I believe that it is necessary to create a better future for the tech industry and society as a whole.


Overall, while there are significant barriers to diversity in tech, there are also concrete steps we can take to overcome them. By investing in accessible education and training, addressing bias and discrimination, and promoting diversity in leadership, we can create a more inclusive and equitable tech industry.

In conclusion, while I have not personally faced barriers to education or discrimination in my last two jobs, I am committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in tech. As a tech lead, I recognize the importance of creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, and I will continue to prioritize inclusion in every aspect of my work. By working together to overcome barriers and promote diversity, we can create a more equitable and innovative tech industry for everyone.


## The role of mentorship and community in supporting diverse talent in tech
 

Mentorship and community play an important role in supporting diverse talent in tech. For underrepresented groups, finding mentors who can provide guidance and support can be crucial for success in the industry. Mentors can offer insights into the industry, help build networks, and provide feedback and advice on career development. They can also serve as role models and sources of inspiration, helping individuals from underrepresented groups envision themselves succeeding in the tech industry.

In addition to mentorship, community is also important for supporting diverse talent in tech. Communities provide a space for individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges. This can be especially valuable for people with disabilities, who may face unique challenges in the industry. By connecting with others who understand these challenges, individuals can feel more supported and empowered to succeed. Communities can also provide opportunities for learning and growth, whether through online forums, local meetups, or industry events.

Overall, mentorship and community are critical components of supporting diverse talent in tech. By providing guidance, support, and a sense of belonging, these resources can help underrepresented groups succeed in the industry. As someone who has benefited from mentorship and community in my own career, I recognize the importance of giving back and supporting others. I am committed to serving as a mentor and connecting with communities that support diversity in tech, and I encourage others to do the same. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive tech industry for everyone.

## The importance of advocating for change within the industry 
and holding companies accountable for their diversity and 
inclusion efforts



Advocating for change within the tech industry and holding companies accountable for their diversity and inclusion efforts is crucial for creating a more equitable and inclusive industry. While there have been some efforts towards promoting diversity and inclusion in tech, progress has been slow and there is still much work to be done. By advocating for change and holding companies accountable, we can push for more meaningful action and create real change.

One important way to advocate for change is by using our voices to speak out about the importance of diversity and inclusion in tech. This can include sharing our own experiences, calling out bias and discrimination when we see it, and advocating for policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion. By speaking out and raising awareness, we can help to shift the conversation around diversity in tech and create a sense of urgency for change.

In addition to advocacy, holding companies accountable for their diversity and inclusion efforts is also important. This can include calling out companies that are not living up to their commitments, pushing for transparency around hiring and promotion practices, and advocating for more equitable policies and practices. By holding companies accountable, we can create pressure for change and help to ensure that diversity and inclusion are taken seriously within the industry.

In conclusion, advocating for change within the tech industry and holding companies accountable for their diversity and inclusion efforts is critical for creating a more equitable and inclusive industry. By using our voices to speak out and holding companies accountable, we can push for more meaningful action and create real change. As someone who is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in tech, I will continue to advocate for change and hold companies accountable for their efforts. I encourage others to do the same, and to work together to create a more inclusive and equitable tech industry for everyone.