In technology, there exists a barrier – the glass ceiling. However, many remarkable women have managed to break through this obstacle. The journey to the top is often filled with hardships. Yet, they have risen through hardships to become powerful figure in the STEM field.

One such incredible woman is Mary Allen Wilkes, a pioneer in software development. Despite lacking any experience in computer programming Wilkes was hired by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the 1950s. She quickly became an expert programmer working on the IBM 704—a computer that required her to write code in an assembly language and was one of the individuals to own a computer at home.

Another person worth mentioning is Gwynne Shotwell – President and COO of SpaceX. With a masters degree in applied mathematics, Shotwell has played a huge role in SpaceXs achievements. Notably, in 2020, SpaceX has sent astronauts to the International Space Station for the first time and has been making great progress towards enabling more accessible space travel since.

Susan Wojcicki, the CEO of YouTube is a woman who has left a significant mark in the tech industry. Joining Google as their marketing manager in 1999, Wojcicki has been a part of the company's growth and success. Furthermore, she has been an advocate for women in STEM, and as a result, female employees in Youtube rose from 24% to nearly 30%.

While biases and stereotypes at work are still happening to women on a daily basis, those who have shattered barriers in the tech industry serve as evidence that these obstacles can be overcome. As women continue to rise to positions of leadership in the tech industry, they are setting a path for generations of women to enter and thrive in this field.

It is time we make changes. From establishing a supportive and inclusive culture to offering more opportunities for women in STEM, we can ensure women are also given the same chance to shine and grow.