Tech skills training failing women in AI age, report claims 

• Women are 40% more likely to have their work replaced by automation than men

• 80% of women in tech say they are not getting the career development they want

A new report by social enterprise Code First Girls and Tech Talent Charter says the current approach to technology skills is ‘not fit for purpose’, leaving women at increased risk of ‘being left behind’. 

‘Building Tomorrow’s Workforce: Inclusive Skills Development in the Age of AI’ calls on tech leaders to urgently implement upskilling and reskilling programs, to ensure women are valued and empowered to succeed. 

The report calls for tech leaders to implement upskilling and reskilling programs and outlines ten recommendations, including prioritising skills mapping, reshaping recruitment and establishing ethical guidelines and policies for AI.  

It is estimated that 1 billion jobs will be transformed by technology and 43% of work tasks will become automated by 2027. Women are at risk of being disproportionately affected by these changes – and are 40% more likely to have their work replaced by AI automation. Therefore those companies that do not introduce upskilling initiatives prevent women from having equal access to the jobs of the future resulting in locking more women out of the sector. 

A survey conducted by Code First Girls found 41% of women are worried that AI could replace their current roles with 30% stating their company don’t provide opportunities for further skill development to adapt to these changes. 

Says Anna Brailsford, CEO, and Co-Founder at Code First Girls: 

“AI development, while promising, isn’t immune to human bias. With 90% of software engineers being men, there’s a risk that AI adoption may perpetuate societal biases. Inclusive reskilling is capable of releasing the fullest spectrum of our human intelligence and creativity, unhindered by the biases of the status quo. This report is a pathway for tech employers to facilitate these programs, with inclusivity at their core.” 

Adds Karen Blake, Co-CEO of Tech Talent Charter: 

“In the ever-changing landscape of technology, it is crucial to create inclusive skills programs for the future. This goes beyond just a strategic plan, it reflects our commitment to fairness and progress. By embracing diversity, we can unlock the full potential of emerging technologies and create a future where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive and make meaningful contributions.

“We need to be intentional in our approach to upskilling and reskilling, and create an environment that supports lifelong learning, values different skill sets, and encourages individual differences. When we develop inclusive skills programs, we are not just closing gaps, we are paving the way for progress and prosperity.”