Low numbers of women in technology industry roles

While the research found low numbers of women in technology jobs, it did suggest interest in tech among young girls

Women continue to be underrepresented in digital technology industry roles, according to new research.

The study for Scotland's Digital Technology Skills Group found that women account for 18% of the workforce.

Drawing on the research, the group is preparing an action plan setting out how to encourage more women into the sector.

The study did find that many schoolgirls are interested in digital technology subjects and careers.

The research forms part of a wider effort to grow Scotland's digital technology industry.

Skills Development Scotland has been working with organisations including Edinburgh Napier University, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Education Scotland and the Scottish government on the project.

'Changing perceptions'

The Digital Technology Skills Group said the numbers of women working in the sector had declined in recent years, but added there were signs of improvement.

Various Scottish organisations have been working on growing Scotland's digital technology industry

Evelyn Walker, of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, is helping to lead work to tackle gender imbalance.

She said: "Addressing the gender imbalance will not be a short term issue and significant work will be required by a range of stakeholders including education, industry and public agencies.

"Initiatives such as extracurricular coding groups, mentoring schemes, and the Digital World campaign which is raising awareness and changing perceptions of digital technology careers, are making progress but we need to do more and refine our strategies to reach more females, more effectively.

"The imbalance starts while girls are in school so it is important that solutions are developed to tackle this issue from early years onwards.

"However, attracting more females to enter digital technology careers is only part of the solution.

"Women should be encouraged to remain in the sector and to progress into interesting, rewarding and senior roles."