Allstate NI recently conducted research with post-primary schools on the uptake of STEM subjects amongst females; particularly in Information Technology. The company compiled responses from female students, across the North West, regarding the perceived barriers to pursuing careers in I.T. This data then formed the basis for discussion during their Women in Technology (WIT) breakfast in recent days.
The breakfast morning attracted females from local schools and business with a shared interest in addressing the female quotient in the technology industry.
Kathryn Harkin, senior project management officer from the Allstate WIT group said, “As an organisation, we are keen to show females that the IT sector has an abundance of rewarding jobs on offer, with competitive salaries and benefits, a great work/life balance, and all the while offering the genuine prospect of career advancement. Students have been very honest during our research phase, and we look forward to putting their suggestions to good use.”
The STEM Business Group have said, “Shortages of STEM-qualified technicians (29%) and graduates (26%) are widespread among firms in the engineering, hi-tech/IT and science areas and are expected to intensify as economic recovery gathers pace, emphasising the need to focus on technicians, as well as graduates.”
School Employer Connections, who work closely with schools and businesses welcomed the actions of the company saying, “We’re delighted to see an employer being so pro-active in trying to get to the bottom of a problem that exists globally. The implications for the economy are significant if employers can do this.”
WIT breakfast morning attendees were present to hear from John Healy, Managing Director at Allstate NI, and Vice President of Allstate Corporation, Pat Coffey. John Healy commented ‘I am thrilled to be an advocate for women in technology at today’s event. This is the first event of its kind for Allstate Northern Ireland- and it certainly won’t be the last. The WIT group in the North West, including support from the local community, are committed to inspiring young females to consider IT as a serious and exciting career move’.
