Sri Lanka is witnessing a quiet revolution. Women are making significant strides in the traditionally male-dominated fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This shift is not only reshaping industries but also redefining the country's economic landscape. According to the University Grants Commission (UGC), in 2017, women accounted for nearly half – 49 percent - of undergraduate enrolments in STEM subjects in local universities. This growing female presence in STEM is particularly evident in the tech industry.

But their impact extends far beyond individual achievements. Diverse teams are more creative and innovative, leading to breakthroughs that benefit society as a whole. And let’s not forget the economic implications: Women in STEM earn higher salaries, contributing to a more equitable society. These factors combined make the tech industry a particularly attractive career path for women.

So, you’re keen on a tech career? Women are making significant strides in the tech industry, and there’s a world of opportunities waiting to be seized. But where to start? This guide will equip you with the skills, help you build a strong network, and show you how to actively participate in the dynamic tech world.

Developing a Strong Skill Set:

Education is Key: Pursue STEM degrees, certifications, or online courses to build a solid foundation. Coding bootcamps, MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), and workshops can further refine your expertise. Continuous learning is crucial – stay updated on industry trends to remain competitive.

Technical Mastery: Mastering specific skills is paramount. This could include programming languages like Python or Java, web development tools like HTML and CSS, or data analysis platforms like SQL and Tableau. Cloud computing and AI/ML skills are also in high demand.

Soft Skills Matter: Don't underestimate the power of soft skills. Problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and adaptability are essential for navigating complex projects and working effectively with teams. Creativity,leadership, and emotional intelligence are equally important assets.

Building Your Network:

Join the Sisterhood: Professional organisations like Women in Technology International (WITI) or the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) provide invaluable support and networking opportunities.

Attend Industry Events: Conferences like Grace Hopper Celebration or Women in Tech Summit offer a chance to learn from leading experts and connect with other aspiring women in STEM.

Engage Online: Online communities like Reddit's r/girlsgonewired or Stack Overflow are vibrant platforms for discussions, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. Don't forget social media – connect with tech influencers and build your personal brand.

Mentorship Matters: Seek guidance from experienced professionals through MentorNet or Everwise. As you progress, consider offering mentorship to others, fostering a supportive community.

Getting Actively Involved:
Join Google Developer Groups (GDGs): These local chapters provide a space to learn new skills, collaborate with fellow developers, and contribute to community projects – a perfect way to gain practical experience.

Empower Yourself with Women Techmakers: Apply for scholarships, attend global events, and access resources to support your career journey. Participation in leadership programs can accelerate your growth.

Hackathons & Coding Competitions: Events like Google Code Jam or local hackathons test your skills, encourage innovation, and offer opportunities to collaborate with diverse teams.

Open Source is Open to You: Contribute to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub. This showcases your talent, allows collaboration with developers worldwide, and builds a public portfolio of your work.

Meet & Connect at Tech Meetups: Join local tech meetups to network with professionals, share your ideas, and learn from others' experiences.

Level Up Your Skills with Online Learning: Platforms like Coursera or edX offer tech-related courses, discussion forums, and study groups. Earning certificates validates your expertise and strengthens your resume.

Industry Certifications: Consider certifications from leading technology companies. Study groups for preparation are available, and showcasing these credentials demonstrates your commitment to excellence.

Embrace Your Voice:

Blogging & Content Creation: Share your unique perspective through blogs or vlogs.Engaging with the tech community builds your personal brand as a woman in STEM.

Sharpen Your Stage Presence: Workshops can improve your presentation skills. Practise public speaking at local events or online forums to foster confidence in sharing your expertise.

Gain Hands-on Experience: Internships and apprenticeships provide valuable opportunities to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting. Build your network, explore different careers, and learn about company cultures.