1. What roles do women hold in Spokane’s tech industry?

Women in Spokane’s tech industry hold various roles throughout the sector, representing a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. Here are some examples of roles that women may hold in the industry:

1. Programmers and software engineers: Women can be found writing code, building software applications, and developing various programs for a wide range of industries.

2. Project managers: These professionals oversee software and technology projects from conception to completion. They work with clients, teams of developers and testers, and other stakeholders to ensure projects are completed on time and on budget.

3. Designers: Women may also work as UX/UI designers, creating user-friendly interfaces for websites, apps, or software.

4. Data analysts: These professionals gather and analyze large sets of data to help inform business decisions and strategies.

5. IT support specialists: Some women may specialize in providing technical support to organizations or individuals who use tech products or services.

6. Digital marketing specialists: Women with a background in marketing may work in the tech industry to help promote products or services through digital platforms.

7. Consultants: Some women may offer their expertise as consultants for specific areas of technology like cybersecurity or web development.

8. Start-up founders/entrepreneurs: Women are increasingly becoming founders and leaders of tech-focused startups that address a variety of needs within the industry.

9. Educators/trainers: Some women in the tech industry may also pass on their knowledge by teaching courses or giving workshops on topics related to technology.

Overall, women hold a wide range of positions within Spokane’s tech industry, tackling various challenges and bringing valuable perspectives to the table.

2. How have women in tech contributed to the growth of Spokane’s tech ecosystem?

Spokane’s tech ecosystem has benefitted greatly from the contributions of women in the industry. Women have played an important role in driving innovation, expanding opportunities, and creating a more diverse and inclusive environment for growth.

First and foremost, women in tech have been instrumental in the development and implementation of new technologies. They have brought fresh perspectives and creative ideas to the table, leading to new products, services, and processes that have helped fuel the growth of Spokane’s tech sector.

Moreover, women have also played a crucial role in expanding opportunities for others in the industry. They have opened up doors and challenged stereotypes, paving the way for more diversity within tech companies. This has not only brought new talent to the workforce but has also fostered a more inclusive culture where all individuals are valued for their skills and contributions.

Women have also been strong advocates for change within Spokane’s tech community. Through various initiatives such as mentorship programs, networking events, and workshops focused on coding and entrepreneurship, they have encouraged more women to pursue careers in tech. This has helped address the gender imbalance in the industry and created a supportive environment where women can thrive.

In addition, many women in tech have taken on leadership roles within companies and organizations, bringing their unique insights into decision-making processes. This has helped shape company cultures that are more welcoming to diverse perspectives and ideas.

Overall, women in tech have had a significant impact on Spokane’s tech ecosystem by driving innovation, fostering diversity and inclusivity, and promoting growth opportunities for all individuals. Their contributions continue to be invaluable as they help build a thriving technology community that represents diverse experiences and talents.

3. Can you provide examples of successful women-led startups or companies in Spokane’s tech scene?

Yes, there are several successful women-led startups and companies in Spokane’s tech scene, such as:

1. 2nd Watch: This cloud computing consultancy firm was founded by Jennifer Warawa and Jeff Aden in 2010. Warawa serves as the company’s executive vice president of partner relations and partnerships.

2. SeventySix Capital: Founded by entrepreneur and investor Jilene Helman in 2016, this venture capital firm invests in early-stage technology companies.

3. Clubhouse: This project management software startup was co-founded by Libby Fischer and Andrew Bermudez in 2018. Fischer is the company’s chief operating officer.

4. Intellisoft Technologies: Founded by Sangeeta Banerjee in 1999, this software development and IT consulting firm has been recognized as one of the top small businesses owned by women by Fortune Magazine.

5. Writers In The Storm Publishing: Chris Patchell founded this independent publishing company for authors seeking a more personalized approach to publishing. The company is known for offering creative control to its authors and promoting female empowerment within the publishing industry.

6. Blue Compass: Founded in 2007 by Jessica Johnson, this digital marketing agency provides services such as website design, SEO, social media, and content creation.

7. Create33: Co-founded by Rebecca Lovell, this Seattle-based startup hub offers resources and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs focused on innovation in technology.

8. Murphy Development Group: Led by CEO Kathy Murphy-Evans, this real estate development company specializes in affordable housing projects that incorporate sustainable features and community partnerships.

9. Crave Catering & Events: Owned and operated by Debbie Doll-Haller since 2008, this catering and events business has received numerous awards for their innovative menus and event designs.

10.Pacific Medical Centers: A subsidiary of Providence Health & Services, Lisa Taylor serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Pacific Medical Centers, a network of primary and specialty care clinics in the Puget Sound region.

4. How are local organizations and initiatives supporting and promoting gender diversity in the tech industry?

Local organizations and initiatives play a crucial role in promoting and supporting gender diversity in the tech industry. Some of the ways they do this include:

1. Hosting events and workshops: Local organizations and initiatives often hold events and workshops focused on promoting gender diversity in tech. These gatherings provide a platform for women to network, share their experiences, learn new skills, and support each other in their career journeys.

2. Mentorship programs: Many local organizations organize mentorship programs where experienced women in the tech industry can mentor young women who are just starting their careers. Through these programs, mentees receive guidance, advice, and support from established professionals that can help them navigate the industry.

3. Advocacy campaigns: Local organizations often lead advocacy campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of gender diversity in tech and challenge stereotypes about women in the industry. They may also lobby for policy changes that support greater inclusion of women in tech.

4. Scholarship opportunities: Some local organizations offer scholarship programs specifically for women studying or working in tech fields. These scholarships can help alleviate financial barriers to obtaining education or training, making it easier for more women to enter and advance in the tech industry.

5. Networking opportunities: Local organizations provide networking opportunities for women to connect with each other as well as with employers looking to hire diverse talent. This allows women to build relationships within the industry, showcase their skills and experiences, and find job opportunities.

6. Training and skill development: Many local organizations run training programs aimed at equipping women with technical skills that are highly valued in the tech industry. These programs not only help participants improve their employability but also bridge the existing gender gap in technical roles.

7. Community building: By bringing together a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for promoting gender diversity, local organizations create a sense of belonging for its members within the tech ecosystem.

Overall, local organizations and initiatives serve as important catalysts for creating an inclusive and diverse tech industry by providing essential support, resources, and opportunities for women.

5. In your opinion, what unique perspective do women bring to the table in Spokane’s tech sector?

Women bring diverse perspectives to the table in Spokane’s tech sector. These perspectives include empathy, creativity, and attention to detail.

Empathy is a key trait that women bring to the tech sector, as it allows them to understand the needs and experiences of different users and customers. This can lead to better user-centered design and more inclusive products and services.

Creativity is another important perspective that women bring to the table. Women have been shown to think more divergently than men, coming up with unique solutions and ideas that can drive innovation in the tech industry.

Attention to detail is also a valuable perspective that women bring. With their strong organizational skills, women are able to pay close attention to details and ensure quality control in product development, which is crucial in technology where small errors can have significant consequences.

Women also have a unique perspective when it comes to leadership in the tech sector. Research has shown that companies with more gender diversity in leadership positions tend to be more successful and innovative. Women’s ability to navigate complex relationships and foster collaboration can contribute positively towards building a strong team dynamic within a company.

Additionally, as women continue to break through barriers and make strides in traditionally male-dominated industries like technology, their presence can provide inspiration for other aspiring female tech professionals. This can help create a more diverse and inclusive workforce in the long run.

In summary, women bring valuable perspectives such as empathy, creativity, attention to detail, and leadership skills that contribute positively towards driving growth and innovation in Spokane’s tech sector. Embracing diversity – including gender diversity – is essential for the success of any industry, including technology.

6. Are there any challenges that women face in the local tech industry? If so, how are they being addressed?

Yes, there are numerous challenges that women face in the local tech industry, including:

1) Gender bias and discrimination: Women often face discrimination and unequal treatment in the tech industry, whether it is during hiring processes, promotions, or in the workplace. This can lead to a lack of opportunities for career advancement and wage gaps.

2) Lack of representation: The tech industry is predominantly male-dominated, with women being underrepresented in leadership positions and technical roles. This lack of representation can make it difficult for women to find mentorship and networking opportunities.

3) Stereotypes and cultural norms: The stereotype that men are inherently better at coding or working in technology can discourage girls from pursuing careers in this field. Cultural norms such as societal expectations for women to focus on traditional feminine roles can also hinder their interest or advancement in STEM fields.

4) Work-life balance: Many women struggle to maintain a work-life balance due to long working hours and demanding deadlines in the tech industry. This makes it challenging for them to juggle their personal obligations with their careers.

To address these challenges, many organizations and initiatives have been established to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. This includes mentorship programs for young girls interested in technology, workshops on unconscious bias training for HR professionals, and diversity and inclusion initiatives within companies. Additionally, there is a growing awareness of the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences in driving innovation and success within the tech industry. Companies are starting to prioritize diversity initiatives and offer benefits such as flexible working hours to support work-life balance for all employees.

7. What steps are being taken to attract more female talent and leadership into Spokane’s tech workforce?

There are several initiatives and organizations working towards attracting more female talent and leadership into Spokane’s tech workforce:

1. Women in Technology (WIT) is a local organization that aims to support, educate, and encourage women in the tech industry. They offer networking opportunities, mentorship programs, workshops, and events to connect women with tech companies.

2. The Spokane STEM Network has launched a campaign called “STEM Like Me” which highlights the diverse faces of women in STEM careers, including those in the technology field. This initiative aims to inspire young girls and show them that they too can pursue a career in technology.

3. The Spokane chapter of Girls Who Code offers coding education programs for girls aged 7-17. They also offer summer camps and coding clubs at local schools to expose girls to coding at an early age.

4. Spokane Public Schools has partnered with Next Generation Zone to offer career exploration opportunities for high school students interested in technology careers. Through hands-on workshops and job shadowing opportunities, students can learn about different tech careers and get a better understanding of what it takes to work in the industry.

5. The City of Spokane’s Women & Children’s Free Restaurant has launched a program called “She Codes” which offers free coding classes for low-income women looking to enter the tech industry.

6. Gonzaga University offers scholarships specifically for women pursuing degrees in computer science or engineering fields.

7. Tech companies in Spokane, such as Microsoft and Amazon have diversity and inclusion programs and initiatives that aim to attract more female talent into their workforce.

8. Local schools like Eastern Washington University have partnerships with companies like Boeing, which offer internships and job opportunities for students pursuing degrees in technology fields.

Overall, these initiatives are working towards creating a more diverse and inclusive tech workforce in Spokane by providing support, education, and resources for women interested in pursuing careers in technology.

8. How has the representation of women in technology changed over the years in Spokane?

The representation of women in technology has certainly increased over the years in Spokane, but there is still a significant gender gap. In the early days of technology, women were often excluded from pursuing careers in the field and faced challenges in being taken seriously as professionals. However, with the rise of initiatives and movements focused on promoting diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry, there has been a gradual increase in the number of women working in technology roles.

According to a 2020 report from Inland Northwest Technology Council (INTEC), women hold about 25% of tech jobs in Spokane, which is higher than the national average of 20%. This shows some progress compared to previous years, when women made up only around 10-15% of the tech workforce.

Furthermore, there has been a rise in organizations and programs specifically aimed at supporting and encouraging women to pursue careers in technology. For example, Spokane Women Who Code provides networking opportunities, resources and support for women working or interested in technology. The University of Washington’s site campus offers WiTec (Women in Technology) club which aims to connect female students with opportunities for mentorship and professional development.

However, despite these improvements, there is still a long way to go towards achieving gender equality in the tech industry. Many challenges still exist for women trying to break into this male-dominated field. Gender biases and stereotypes continue to impact hiring decisions and workplace dynamics. Additionally, there is still a lack of representation of women at leadership positions within technology companies.

In conclusion, while there have been some positive changes regarding the representation of women in technology over the years in Spokane, more needs to be done to create an inclusive and diverse tech community that provides equal opportunities for all genders.

9. Can you discuss any specific programs or events aimed at empowering and supporting women in Spokane’s tech community?

Yes, there are several programs and events in Spokane’s tech community that are focused on empowering and supporting women.

1. Women in Tech (WIT) Spokane: This is a monthly meetup group for women in the technology industry to network, share resources, and support each other in their careers. The group organizes workshops, panel discussions, and talks by successful women leaders in the tech industry.

2. Code 4Her: This is a mentorship program aimed at encouraging and supporting girls and young women to pursue careers in coding and computer science. The program pairs high school students with professional female mentors who work in the tech industry. They also organize workshops to teach coding skills to girls of all ages.

3. Spokane Women in STEM (SWSTEM): This is a professional organization for women working or interested in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). They organize networking events, workshops, and mentoring programs to support women at all stages of their STEM careers.

4. Spokane Girls Code: This is an annual event organized by the Spokane chapter of Girl Develop It, a nonprofit organization that aims to increase diversity in the tech industry through affordable software development education for adults. At this event, girls aged 8-12 can learn basic coding skills from female instructors.

5. Palouse Women’s Expo: This is an annual expo that brings together local businesses run by women entrepreneurs from various industries including technology. The event features workshops on entrepreneurship and leadership as well as opportunities for networking.

6. Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council (NW MTN MSDC) Women’s Business Enterprise Initiative (WBEI): This initiative provides support and resources to promote growth and development of minority-owned businesses owned or operated by women in the Northwest region of the US. They also offer training programs and networking opportunities specifically for women business owners.

7. Accelerate Her Future Conference: This annual conference brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, and students to discuss empowerment, career advancement, and entrepreneurship opportunities for women in the tech industry. The conference features inspiring keynotes, panel discussions, and networking sessions.

8. Spokane Women’s Life Expo: This is another annual expo that brings together women from all walks of life to celebrate their achievements and encourage personal and professional growth. The expo offers resources and workshops on a variety of topics including technology.

These are just a few examples of the many programs and events in Spokane’s tech community that aim to empower and support women. These initiatives not only provide valuable resources for women but also help promote diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry.

10. Have there been any recent efforts to close the gender wage gap for women working in technology positions in Spokane?

Yes, there have been recent efforts to close the gender wage gap for women working in technology positions in Spokane. In 2019, Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI) launched a Women in Technology initiative to address the gender disparity in the technology industry and support women in tech careers. This initiative includes workshops and networking events aimed at helping women build networks and skills to advance their careers.

Additionally, the Eastern Washington University Career Services fair held an IT Career Fair specifically targeting women seeking jobs in technology-related fields. The goal of this fair was to connect female job seekers with employers who are committed to addressing the gender wage gap and creating diverse and inclusive workplaces.

In 2020, GSI also launched a mentorship program called “SheTech Mentor Connect” which connects female students with professional mentors from Spokane’s technology community. This program aims to provide guidance and support for women pursuing careers in tech and create a pipeline of talented women entering the industry.

Local organizations such as Women Who Code Spokane also provide resources, mentorship opportunities, and networking events for women in tech.

Overall, there has been a growing recognition and effort within the Spokane community to address the gender wage gap in the technology industry and support more equitable opportunities for all professionals regardless of their gender.

11. How does the presence of strong female leaders impact the overall culture and atmosphere of Silicon Valley East (Spokane)?

The presence of strong female leaders in Silicon Valley East (Spokane) can have a positive impact on the overall culture and atmosphere. Here are some ways:

1. Encourages diversity and inclusivity: Having strong female leaders in positions of power can promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. This can help create a more welcoming and diverse environment where all individuals feel valued and respected.

2. Promotes gender equality: The presence of successful female leaders can challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes, promoting the idea that both men and women are capable of achieving success in leadership positions.

3. Sets an example for other women: Female leaders can serve as role models for other women, inspiring them to pursue their own leadership goals and breaking down barriers for future generations.

4. Brings diverse perspectives: Women often bring different perspectives, experiences, and approaches to problem-solving, which can be valuable for business success.

5. Encourages collaboration: Female leaders tend to have strong communication skills and value collaboration, which can promote a more cooperative workplace culture.

6. Fosters a supportive work environment: Strong female leaders often prioritize creating a supportive work environment, promoting team building, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for all employees.

7. Attracts top talent: Companies with a reputation for promoting gender equality and having strong female leadership may attract top talent who value inclusive workplaces.

In summary, the presence of strong female leaders in Silicon Valley East (Spokane) can contribute to creating a more diverse, inclusive, collaborative, and supportive work culture overall.

12. Is there a noticeable difference between how men and women are treated or perceived within Spokane’s tech scene?

There have been some anecdotal reports of disparity in treatment between men and women in Spokane’s tech scene. There are instances where women have shared stories of being overlooked or dismissed by male colleagues, or not feeling as valued or respected in their roles. Some have also expressed a lack of representation and opportunities for advancement for women in the industry.

However, it’s worth noting that these experiences may not be representative of everyone’s experience and there are certainly efforts being made to promote diversity and inclusivity within Spokane’s tech community. Organizations like the Spokane STEM Network and Startup Spokane actively work towards creating a more diverse and inclusive environment for all members of the tech community. Overall, while there may be some disparities present, there is also a growing effort to address them and create a more equitable tech scene in Spokane.

13. What role do mentorship and networking play in advancing the careers of women working in technology fields within Spokane?

Mentorship and networking play crucial roles in advancing the careers of women working in technology fields within Spokane. These forms of support help women connect with others in their field, gain valuable insights and advice, and build a strong professional network.

By having access to mentors who have already succeeded in the tech industry, women can receive guidance on navigating their career paths and overcoming potential challenges. They can also learn about different opportunities and be encouraged to pursue leadership positions.

Networking events, conferences, and workshops provide opportunities for women to connect with other professionals in their field. These interactions can lead to valuable connections, potential job opportunities, and shared learning experiences.

Additionally, mentorship and networking can also help combat feelings of isolation that some women may experience as they are often underrepresented in technical roles. By connecting with like-minded individuals, women can find a sense of community and support that is essential for career advancement.

Overall, mentorship and networking allow women in Spokane’s tech industry to expand their knowledge, gain confidence, and make meaningful connections that can open doors for their future success.

14. Can you speak on any specific achievements or milestones that have been made by women working in Spokane’s tech industry recently?

There have been several notable achievements and milestones made by women working in Spokane’s tech industry recently. Some examples include:

1. Formation of the Sistaz in Tech Network: This network was created to support and empower women of color in the tech industry in Spokane. It provides a platform for networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.

2. Women-led tech companies: There are several successful women-led tech companies in Spokane such as NextIT, 2nd Watch, Moz, and Azentive. These companies have been recognized for their innovation, growth, and contribution to the local tech ecosystem.

3. Women in leadership roles: Many women have taken on leadership roles in top tech companies based in Spokane. For instance, Heather Copley is the chief information officer at Avista Corp, Melinda Bower is vice president of software engineering at NextIT, and Kelly Daniels is the chief financial officer at 2nd Watch.

4. Mentorship programs: Organizations such as IGNITE Worldwide and Technovate offer mentorship programs that connect high school girls with women working in technology fields. These programs aim to inspire young girls to pursue careers in technology.

5. Recognition through awards: Several women working in Spokane’s tech industry have been recognized for their accomplishments through awards and recognition programs. For example, Jocelyn Bell from justagirlandherblog.com won the Best Blogger Award at the Inland Empire Society of Professional Journalists Awards.

6. WiT Regatta Spokane: The WiT Regatta is a global conference that brings together women from various industries including tech to discuss leadership, innovation, diversity, and inclusion. It recently launched its first event in Spokane aimed specifically at empowering and showcasing women working in technology.

Overall, these achievements and milestones demonstrate that there is a strong community of talented and successful women working in Spokane’s tech industry who are making significant contributions to the field. Their presence and impact serve as inspiration and encouragement for other women to pursue careers in tech in Spokane.

15. Are there any notable female-focused meetups, conferences, or workshops taking place within or near Spokane to promote gender diversity and inclusion in technology fields?

Yes, there are several notable female-focused meetups, conferences, and workshops in Spokane that promote gender diversity and inclusion in technology fields. Some of these include:

1. Women in Tech Spokane: This meetup group brings together women professionals and entrepreneurs in the tech industry for networking, learning, and support.

2. Women’s Leadership Forum: This annual conference is organized by Greater Spokane Incorporated to empower women in business and leadership roles. It features breakout sessions on topics such as technology, innovation, and workplace diversity.

3. Ada Developer’s Academy: This is a Seattle-based non-profit organization that offers a full-time coding bootcamp for women and people from marginalized genders.

4. SheTech Explorer Day: Organized by the Spokane Regional STEM Network, this event aims to introduce high school girls to careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through interactive workshops and hands-on activities.

5. Girls Who Code Club: This club is part of the national non-profit organization that works to close the gender gap in technology by teaching coding skills to girls aged 13-17.

6. Coding Girls Meetup: This monthly meetup provides a space for Spokane women interested in coding to connect with each other and learn from industry experts.

7. Code Chix Spokane Chapter: Code Chix is a global network of IT professionals who organize events to support and mentor women engineers and coders.

8. Imagine NextGen Women Leaders Program: This program by Microsoft is aimed at empowering high school girls with leadership skills through workshops focused on career planning, digital fluency, communication skills, entrepreneurship, and more.

9. SheTech Student Tech Conferences: These regional conferences bring together high school girls for hands-on tech workshops led by industry professionals.

10. Women’s Advantage Conference & Career Fair by Bluescope Buildings North America: This event focuses on promoting diversity and leadership among women in finance-related fields such as accounting, finance, economics, and business.

16. Do you think there is still progress to be made towards achieving gender balance within both startup companies and traditional corporations based out of Spokane?

Yes, there is definitely progress to be made towards achieving gender balance in both startup companies and traditional corporations based out of Spokane. While the city has made efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity, there is still work to be done in addressing systemic barriers and promoting equal opportunities for women in the workforce. Some steps that can be taken include implementing policies that ensure equal pay for equal work, providing mentorship and leadership training programs for women, and creating a more inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued and respected. Additionally, increased representation of women in leadership positions can serve as a positive example and inspire more women to pursue careers in entrepreneurship and corporate jobs.

17. What impact do you believe introducing more diverse voices will have on future innovations coming out of Silicon Valley East (Spokane)?

Introducing more diverse voices in Silicon Valley East (Spokane) will have a significant impact on future innovations in the region. Here are some key potential impacts:

1. Increased diversity of ideas and perspectives: Bringing in more diverse voices from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences will result in a wider range of ideas and perspectives in the innovation process. This can lead to more creative and innovative solutions to problems.

2. Improved understanding of target markets: With a diverse group of voices at the table, companies will gain a better understanding of their target markets. This is important because it allows them to develop products and services that cater to the specific needs, preferences, and behaviors of different segments of the population.

3. Enhanced problem-solving abilities: Diverse teams bring together individuals with various skills, knowledge, and ways of thinking. This can help companies identify and solve problems more effectively by drawing on a wider range of solutions.

4. Increased adaptability and flexibility: In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, adaptability is crucial for success. Having diverse voices involved in decision-making processes can give companies an edge when it comes to adapting quickly to new market trends or unforeseen challenges.

5. Greater innovation potential: Studies have shown that diversity fosters innovation by challenging conventional thinking patterns and encouraging risk-taking. By incorporating more diverse voices into their teams, companies in Spokane could unlock their full potential for creating breakthrough innovations.

6. Improved corporate culture and employee satisfaction: Embracing diversity can also enhance corporate culture by promoting inclusivity and equality within the workplace. This can lead to higher levels of employee satisfaction, which has been linked to increased productivity, creativity, and retention rates.

In conclusion, introducing more diverse voices in Silicon Valley East (Spokane) has the potential to drive significant positive changes in terms of innovation capabilities, market understanding, problem-solving abilities, organizational culture, employee satisfaction, and overall business success in the region.

18.Would you say that universities and colleges in Spokane are doing enough to encourage female students to pursue careers in tech?

I cannot accurately answer this question without more specific information about the efforts and initiatives currently in place at universities and colleges in Spokane to encourage female students to pursue careers in tech. It would be beneficial to research the current statistics and programs aimed at supporting women in tech fields, as well as gather opinions from female students themselves, before making a definitive statement on whether or not enough is being done.

19. Can you comment on any local companies or organizations that are taking active steps towards creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace within the technology sector?

There are several local companies and organizations in my area that are actively working towards creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace within the technology sector. These include:

1. Google: Google has implemented several initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion within its workplace. This includes setting diversity goals for hiring and promotion, offering unconscious bias training, and creating programs to support underrepresented groups in tech.

2. Microsoft: Similarly, Microsoft has a strong focus on diversity and inclusion within its organization. They have established employee resource groups for various underrepresented communities, host regular diversity and inclusion workshops, and have set ambitious diversity goals for their workforce.

3. Women Who Code: This global non-profit organization has a local chapter in my area that provides opportunities for women to advance in tech careers through networking events, mentorship programs, and skill-building workshops.

4. Tech Inclusion Pledge: This is an initiative started by Change Catalyst to encourage tech companies to commit to building a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Several companies in my area have signed on to this pledge, including Airbnb, Salesforce, Slack, and Uber.

5. Diversity-focused startups: There are also several startups in my area that are specifically focused on promoting diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry. These include Blendoor (a blind recruiting app), Jopwell (a job placement platform for underrepresented minorities), and Pymetrics (a platform using AI to eliminate hiring bias).

Overall, I am encouraged by the growing number of companies and organizations in my area taking active steps towards creating a more inclusive tech sector. However, there is still much work to be done, and it will take continued effort from both individuals and organizations to truly achieve diversity and inclusivity in this field.

20. What changes, if any, do you think still need to be made in order for women to achieve equal representation and opportunities in Spokane’s tech industry?

There are several changes that could be made to help women achieve equal representation and opportunities in Spokane’s tech industry:

1. Increase awareness and education: One of the main barriers for women in the tech industry is the lack of awareness and education about the available opportunities. Organizations can work towards increasing awareness among young girls and women about tech careers, hosting workshops, seminars, and career fairs specifically for them.

2. Encourage diversity and inclusivity: Companies should actively work towards creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace. This includes promoting diversity in hiring practices, providing equal pay for all employees, and implementing policies that promote inclusivity, such as flexible work arrangements.

3. Mentorship programs: Implementing formal mentorship programs can help create a support system for women in the tech industry. Mentors can provide guidance, coaching, and advice to help women advance in their careers.

4. Address bias and discrimination: Companies should have strict policies in place to address any forms of bias or discrimination that may occur in the workplace. This could include implementing anti-discrimination training for all employees.

5. Provide resources for professional development: Companies can provide resources such as training programs, conferences, and networking events specifically geared towards helping women advance their skills and knowledge in the tech industry.

6. Create leadership opportunities: Women often face barriers when it comes to advancing into leadership positions in the tech industry. Companies can proactively identify high-potential female employees and provide them with opportunities for leadership roles within the organization.

7. Support work-life balance: In order to attract and retain top female talent, companies should offer flexible work arrangements or other benefits that support work-life balance.

Overall, it is important for companies to recognize that creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and supported is key to promoting gender equality in the tech industry.