The AI industry plays a huge part in today’s economy, with data science and automation growing at lightning speed. Every other day, tech giants like Nvidia and Intel pop up with flashy headlines about new AI breakthroughs, updates, or upgrades. But for all their brainpower, they still can’t solve one problem that’s been around forever: the gender gap in tech. Or the inclusion of women in AI.
It is ironic, isn’t it? AI is supposed to make the world smarter, better, and more modern. Yet, the industry itself seems stuck on outdated mindsets, leaving women in tech with limited entry points, few leadership opportunities, and often unwelcoming workspaces.
Data reveal women’s underrepresentation in AI industry
A 2020 LinkedIn report named Artificial Intelligence Specialist as the fastest-growing job. The demand for AI specialists has been skyrocketing, with hiring for these roles increasing by 74% each year over the previous four years. This shows just how important AI has become in various industries. However, while there’s a strong need for skilled workers in AI, the report also points out that women remain significantly underrepresented in this field.
Women make up less than 25% of AI specialists, 20% of engineers, and only 14% of the cloud computing workforce. At Facebook, only 15% of AI researchers are women, and at Google, it’s an even bleaker 10%. Globally, just 16% of tenure-track AI faculty are women.
What do India’s AI stats say?
In India’s tech industry, women make up 43% of entry-level roles, but this drops to just 4-8% at executive levels, far below the global average of 14%. Although women hold a decent share of the workforce, the growth rate at which they join tech and move into leadership roles remains slow.
India’s tech workforce consists of 4.6 million workers, with women making up around 1.3 million, roughly 36% of the total. While this figure may seem promising, the overall Women’s Workforce Participation Rate (WPR) is much lower. In 2022, women made up only 10.8% of the total tech workforce. Estimates by recruitment firm TeamLease Digital suggest this will increase to 14.9% by 2027, showing some improvement but still falling far short of parity.
Even with expected growth, women will still make up less than one-fourth of the tech industry.
Women in AI: What is holding them back?
Unconscious bias is a significant challenge for women in AI. It refers to subtle, often unintentional preferences or assumptions that can influence hiring decisions. Google’s study found that men are more likely to be hired for AI roles, even when their qualifications are identical to those of women. A World Economic Forum study found that women are 25% less likely to be hired for AI roles than men. Even after securing a position, they are 15% less likely to be promoted.
A significant obstacle for women in AI is the lack of role models. Leadership positions in the field are still dominated by men, which limits women’s ability to see themselves succeeding in similar roles. Girls Who Code conducted a study showing that only 11% of AI role models are women. This lack of representation sends an implicit message that AI is not a space for women. Without seeing successful women in leadership positions, many women may feel isolated or out of place, leading to lower confidence and reduced motivation to pursue careers in the field.
Although the extent of gender disparity in AI and data roles may differ from one region to another, the overall industry struggles to achieve balanced gender representation.
Women in AI: The final thoughts on addressing gender bias
Progress on gender balance seems to lag in an industry that moves fast. However, before we start blaming tech companies, let’s examine the root cause. Many girls still grow up believing they should choose “appropriate” gender-related careers. Not to mention, tech and AI have long been portrayed as a “man’s world.” Unfortunately, they are doing little to change these outdated ideas.
The real solution to addressing gender inequality in tech begins with systemic changes, starting at the very first level. It means creating environments where children, regardless of gender, are encouraged to explore all career options, including tech. It also involves addressing societal norms, family expectations, and educational biases that push girls away from STEM.
References:
Do Better | Esade.Edu: Women in AI: addressing the impact of a worrying gender gap
UN News: Artificial intelligence: rooting out bias and stereotypes
IBEF: India’s tech industry to see a surge in women workforce, at 14.9% by 2027
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the writer’s insights, supported by data and resources available both online and offline, as applicable. Changeincontent.com is committed to promoting inclusivity across all forms of content. We broadly define inclusivity as media, policies, law, and history—encompassing all elements that influence the lives of women and gender-queer individuals. Our goal is to promote understanding and advocate for comprehensive inclusivity.
