Women in Tech - Information, Inspiration, & Why the Industry Needs You

Description

Welcome to Souper Tuesday! Station 2 Innovation is joined by joined by Tameika Reed (CEO) and Dionne Parler (COO) of the Women In Linux organization to discuss diversity in technology. Many companies, like Google and Facebook reveals have challenges in developing a more diverse workforce. In July 2016, Facebook published its latest diversity report revealing that only 2% of its U.S. workforce is black and only 4% are Hispanic. When it comes to technical workers, the numbers are even worse: 1% is black, 3% Hispanic. These numbers haven't moved since the company's first two diversity reports, released in 2014 and 2015 despite the fact that the company has said how hard it's working to increase diversity through partnerships and programs, both internal and external. There has been a small uptick in the number of hires who are Asian; it's inched up 2% each year to 38% in 2016. And Google's diversity goals haven't fared any better matching a trend across Silicon Valley and the tech world. Can some of the blame be placed on the skills gap? With only 1 in 4 U.S. high schools teaching computer science, programs and mentors outside tradition education avenues are critical. Tameika Reed (CEO) and Dionne Parler have some great ideas and locally tested solutions to offer that can move the needle toward a sustainable diversified workplace including current and future plans to reach area youth through technology training and mentoring. Join Station 2 Innovation and Women in Linux for great insights and a series of practical steps that will help the tech industry's goal of greater diversification. Station 2 Innovation’s mission is "Building & Connecting the Community to Catalyze & Support Entrepreneur Growth" and is located in the historic firehouse at 912 7th Ave East in Bradenton. Don’t miss the business social before our event – network, learn and mingle with fellow professionals from Manatee & Sarasota counties and the surrounding areas along the Innovation Coast. We feature informative and exciting events handpicked from the area's best and brightest, all of which will propel your skills and businesses forward. You'll learn fresh perspectives and about new innovations in technology, business, education, and more. With a great lineup of valuable speakers, you’ll feel like you’re earning an MBA in Entrepreneurialism and Small Business! Mark your calendar and be prepared at each session to learn new tools and tactics and arrive early for business networking.