• According to 2004 data, women are significantly underrepresented in the U.S. technology industry and declining, making up 32 percent of the tech work force in 2004, a drop from 41 percent at its peak in 1996.  
  
• There is an ever-growing global demand for technology workers while enrollment in technology degree programs is declining for everyone, and at higher rates for women. 
  
• There is a global shortage of knowledge workers today, and in certain industries such as technology, this problem is already severe with women. The data projects a growing decline in numbers each year.
  
• Technology workers' attitudes towards their work are changing rapidly and quality of life has become important.

In order to address these issues, MCWTF, with team members from 11 major corporations in Southeast Michigan, performed this study to identify and promote some of the best practices for retaining and advancing women in technology-related roles. The study included a survey of local technical, managerial and executive women in technology careers, and best practices from major corporations in Southeast MIchigan were ranked and published. Our goal is to increase the number of women in technology-related roles by improving job satisfaction, opportunity and overall equity within our workplaces.

Publications:

Advancement and Retention of Women in Technology presentation

Advancement and Retention Paper

Advancement and Retention Summary