Tech sector opens new opportunities with ‘Women KickSTART’ programme

Technology Ireland and the Software Skillnet are launching a new drive to engage more women in tech roles and address gender imbalance in the sector.

An information event about the Women KickSTART Programme took place in Dublin yesterday, supported by Dell Technologies.

What is different about Women KickSTART is that it enables women from any background to gain the skills and competencies to work in a technology environment. These may be recent graduates or women who have gained experience working in other fields.

The tech sector has many roles which do not require advanced technology qualifications which means that women can bring strengths and skills gained in college or from working life to a range of customer-facing areas in tech.

The KickSTART programme provides an intensive 15-week process of training, mentoring, and work experience for women who have probably not worked in the tech sector before.

This fast-track opportunity is supported by companies in the sector who provide experienced mentors and work experience to help prepare participants for new careers.

Dell Technologies are hosting the inaugural group and have opened real job opportunities for women who successfully complete the process.

The Software Skillnet’s previous KickSTART programmes have already enabled over 300 people from a wide range of previous backgrounds to enter new careers in tech with 92% of KickSTART participants gaining immediate jobs on completion. Past participants are now excelling in careers in companies like VMware, TrendMicro, VCE, Abtran and Mozy. This is the first time that KickSTART has been delivered with a specific focus on women’s need and interests.

Eoghan Ó Faoláin, Acting Director of Technology Ireland said: “The tech sector is a great place for people from all backgrounds to work. It’s not just for men or techies. Digital skills are fast becoming core to every job in every sector. Through our Software Skillnet network, a number of new programmes support women to enter or return to tech. Over 40 companies are now actively involved in our award-winning Women ReBOOT programme and the development of the KickSTART programme for women tech companies are actively seeking to address gender diversity across the sector. Dell Technologies are front runners in this process and we are thrilled by their support for the pilot group.’

According to Aisling Keegan, Vice President & General Manager Ireland at Dell Technologies: ‘Our future workforce will be diverse and innovative bringing new perspectives and solutions to our products and services. Gender balance is important to our growth and we are committed to actively engaging and supporting the participation of women at all levels of our business.’

Further information on Women KickSTART at softwareskillnet.ie/women-kickstart