Technically speaking :: HP has some big plans to empower and advance women in technical roles

Today, more than half of all women in science, engineering, and technical roles end up leaving their training and education behind. That’s a disheartening statistic, but there’s no use lamenting the numbers. Instead, it’s time to change them. And that’s what HP has set out to do.

Making connections, creating communities 

HP’s plan for sustaining women in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) field begins by investing in early education, targeted recruiting at leading universities and industry conferences, and showcasing HP as a company where women in technical fields can thrive (think Girl Geek Dinners).

To support women in their careers here, HP will soon launch a “Global Women in Tech” series of audio and webcasts aimed at connecting women around the world with female leaders at HP. The Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) team leading this effort also plans to leverage Employee Resource Groups to build an internal support system for women.

"HP is such a virtual company and we have so many resources that women often don’t know where to start,” said Cindy Stanphill, Global Diversity and Inclusion Program Manager. “We bring in business leaders that can help facilitate conversations around career paths, connect with others, and create a sense of community.”

The series of audio and webcasts can also make a difference, she said. “Seeing a visible role mode, whether it’s a man or a woman, sends a clear signal that if they can do it, you can do it.”

Number one for women 

Other plans in the works include supporting women who aspire to reach senior roles by helping them prepare to present at technical conferences, including Tech Con. Coaching sessions and resume workshops will provide a forum where women can develop campaigns to move up in their organizations. And a Women’s Innovation Council will connect women across HP with representatives from companies like Microsoft and Proctor and Gamble to establish cross-company connections.

“When you talk to HP leadership about this, it’s clear they have a vision for HP: They want HP to be the number one choice for talented women in technology,” Cindy said. “Our goal with this program is to make that vision a reality. We want every woman looking to work in an innovative company with a high-performing and fun workforce to think of HP first.”