Women now hold less than 19% of core tech roles in Europe, a 3% decrease from the previous year. This decline signals a failure in past efforts to improve gender representation, especially as artificial intelligence reshapes the industry. Consulting firm McKinsey & Company warns that existing gender gaps could worsen without deliberate action.
The research, analyzing millions of LinkedIn profiles and workforce data, found that women begin to leave tech-adjacent fields shortly after completing their education. While girls perform well in STEM subjects, only 32% enroll in tech-related bachelor's degrees. Even those pursuing advanced degrees are less likely to transition into tech roles, with women holding only 19% of all tech positions. Career progression remains a significant barrier, with women's participation dropping by up to 18% before reaching managerial levels, leaving them with just 13% of tech management positions. This disparity compounds at the executive level, where women hold only 8% of corporate roles.
Women are also concentrated in fewer tech jobs, such as product management and design, roles that are less likely to lead to leadership positions and are currently experiencing layoffs. Furthermore, women are underrepresented in AI and data fields, raising concerns about a narrowing of perspectives in crucial areas like bias and societal impact. This trend persists even in countries with higher overall gender equality.
Workplace culture is cited as the primary reason women leave tech. Nearly half of women reported experiencing sexism or bias in the past year, and 82% felt they had to prove themselves more than male colleagues. Isolation and the burden of unpaid "office housework" further contribute to their departure. Policies intended to support parents, like flexible work, can also inadvertently slow career advancement for some women.
McKinsey recommends improving workplace culture as the most effective strategy to retain women. Companies should set clear representation targets, review them quarterly, and tie career advancement to output. Mentorship programs pairing mid-career women with senior leaders can provide crucial role models and clearer pathways to leadership. Investing in AI-driven reskilling is also proposed as a "new on-ramp" to help women transition into mid-level and senior AI roles, essential for Europe's future innovation and competitiveness.