Dorset’s finest female engineers, IT experts and tech professionals have launched a new group to showcase the work they do and give women a stronger voice in the world of technology.
The new group, Women in Tech Dorset, held its first gathering at BAE System Digital Intelligence’s cutting-edge STEP Centre in Christchurch.
More than 50 people attended to hear the honest and inspiring stories of women who work in a field still dominated by men.
The event, inspired by Prima’s Global Director of Engineering, Seemin Suleri and South Coast Cluster co-ordinator for Women’s Engineering Society, Sharon Jones and supported by Dorset Digital Skills Partnership, brought together women at all stages of their careers to share experiences and barriers.
Seemin said: “Our Women in Tech Dorset launch was a fantastic event with a real sense of community.
“I was incredibly proud to be a part of a panel with these inspirational women who are making things happen every day.
“We very much look forward to holding more Women in Tech Dorset events and hope to see more people join us.”
And, Ed Taylor, Head of Business Operations at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, said: “It was a privilege for BAE Systems Digital Intelligence to support the launch of the inspiring Women in Tech network in Dorset, and meet so many women in the community and hear shared experiences first hand.
“As a business, we are committed to supporting and promoting women in STEM roles, and value networks such as WiT Dorset that have a shared mission to support diversity and inclusion across industry.”
At the launch event, networking breakouts were arranged so attendees could explore what they would like to gain from the new group.
They also discussed how to promote the diverse opportunities that exist in local companies like JPMorgan, Ageas, BAE Systems and digital agencies.
There was also a panel discussion about how women in the tech industry could support each other and help make sure their voices are heard.
Dorset Digital Skills Partnership steering group member, Dorset Council’s Penny Syddall, said: “The Digital Skills Partnership was delighted to support this launch event of Women in Tech Dorset.
“Our partnership, which includes both Dorset councils and the education and business sectors, was formed to make sure we have the skills needed in the workforce to support the local economy.
“By bringing very talented and experienced women together we can not only highlight the great skills we already have in the county but also promote Dorset as a place to do business and where everyone can succeed in STEM.”
The Women in Tech Dorset network will host monthly online webinars, and quarterly events across Dorset, with the first webinar planned for March 8, International Women’s Day.
Anyone who would like to attend can book their place here: WiTD for International Women’s Day Tickets, Wed 8 Mar 2023 at 16:30 | Eventbrite People can also join the Women in Tech Dorset’s LinkedIn page here: (11) Women in Tech – Dorset | Groups | LinkedIn
I have worked in communications for 25 years, first as a journalist and then in public and private sector public relations. From Southampton originally, I have lived in beautiful Dorset for the last two decades. My passion for Dorset has also turned into a passion for landscape photography. My other great loves are my family and Southampton Football Club.