By Caryn Warren
As a woman who has spent over 27 years in the tech industry, I can confidently say that the journey wasn’t easy. When I began my career, there was one thing I lacked that could have made a world of difference—a mentor. Navigating the complexities of an underrepresented field like IT without guidance made every step feel heavier and every achievement more hard-fought than needed.
I look back now and wonder how much easier it could have been if I had someone to turn to for advice, encouragement, and shared experience. Someone to tell me that I wasn’t alone, that the challenges I faced were part of a much larger picture, and that they were surmountable.
Today, I’m determined to ensure that the next generation of women in tech has what I didn’t—mentorship, support, and empowerment. I’ve made it my mission to offer guidance to young women, helping them embrace their talents, overcome obstacles, and thrive in the technology industry.
The Importance of Mentorship in Tech
Mentorship programs are essential for women in tech for several reasons. They provide guidance in a fast-paced and often male-dominated industry, offering technical advice and emotional support. A mentor can help bridge the gap between feeling isolated and feeling empowered. They provide real-world insights, share strategies for dealing with bias, and help mentees navigate career paths that can seem daunting.
Studies show that women with mentors are more likely to stay in tech and climb higher in their careers. Mentorship gives women the tools to break through the "glass ceiling" and shatter stereotypes, but, more importantly, it creates a support system where they don’t have to face these battles alone.
Being There for My Daughter—and Others
I’m proud to say that I’m providing that kind of support for my daughter, Amaya, an IT major. I see firsthand how important it is for young women in tech to have someone in their corner, offering technical knowledge and emotional resilience. As her mother, I get to be her biggest cheerleader, but as a fellow woman in IT, I also know the unique challenges she will face in the industry.
And it’s not just about her—I want to extend that support to other women. I want to be there for the young women who, like me, might otherwise have to navigate this journey alone. Through SHE CAN DO I.T.®, I aim to foster a sense of community and mentorship that uplifts women in technology, encouraging them to stay, grow, and succeed.
Creating a New Legacy Through Mentorship
Mentorship is more than just giving advice; it’s about creating a legacy. As women in tech, we need to ensure that those coming after us don’t face the same hurdles we did. Mentorship offers the chance to change the tech culture by creating a pipeline of strong, confident women who can support each other and lead the industry into a more diverse, equitable future.
I encourage women already in the tech industry to consider becoming mentors. Your experience—both the struggles and the successes—can be invaluable to someone just starting. You have the power to make a significant impact, not just on an individual’s career but on the industry as a whole.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, I wish I had a mentor to help light the way. But now, I get to be that light for others, including my daughter. Mentorship is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity for women in tech. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive industry where women belong and thrive.
If you are a woman in tech seeking mentorship or looking to become a mentor, I encourage you to reach out. We can all help make the tech industry more welcoming for women.
SHE CAN DO IT, and so can you!
