Milwaukee Celebrates Women in Tech
In Milwaukee, we champion the extraordinary women in technology not just during Women’s History Month but every day. Our city’s tech scene is vibrant, largely thanks to pioneers who innovate, lead, and break barriers, reshaping our digital landscape. They’re not just participants but driving forces, inspiring a new generation to explore tech. Join us as we spotlight these remarkable women and the supportive networks that make Milwaukee a thriving hub for women in tech.
A Legacy of Women Pioneers in Tech
The history of women in technology is rich with unsung heroes. From Ada Lovelace, recognized as the world’s first computer programmer, to Grace Hopper’s groundbreaking contributions to computer science, women have been pivotal in tech advancements. Despite historical oversight, their contributions helped pave the way for tech, and women from Wisconsin are no exception.
Local Legend: Judith Faulkner and Epic Systems
Madison native Judith Faulkner, the founder and CEO of Epic Systems, started her company in a basement in 1979, writing the original code on a Data General Eclipse 16-bit minicomputer. Her work became one of the world’s leading medical records software providers. Her visionary approach to healthcare IT has not only transformed the industry but also established her as one of the most influential figures in tech. Women like Faulkner demonstrate the profound impact that female leaders can have on technology and innovation.
Community of Women in Tech in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s tech scene thrives on inclusivity, driven by numerous groups supporting women in the field. These platforms provide mentorship, networking, and a community where women can flourish in the tech ecosystem alongside other women.
Milwaukee Women Inc (MWi) focuses on increasing the representation of women in corporate leadership on boards of directors, offering resources, and networking to maximize the performance of public and private companies.
Girls Who Code Milwaukee aims to close the gender gap in technology by encouraging young girls in grades 5-12 to learn about computer science through free coding clubs and immersion programs, nurturing the next generation of female tech leaders. The club is led by female computer science faculty and college students in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere in different chapters nationwide.
Women in Technology Wisconsin, Inc. (WIT Wisconsin) is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women in technology across all industries and career stages. Through partnerships with Wisconsin professionals, companies, and communities, WIT Wisconsin offers leadership development, tech education, networking, and mentoring to empower women and girls from classroom education to executive leadership.
The MKE Tech Hub Coalition, though not exclusively for women, is a unifying voice for the Milwaukee tech ecosystem. We harness the power of companies, entrepreneurs, educators, community organizations, and other area stakeholders to grow tech talent through jobs, networking, upskilling, and innovation in the Milwaukee region.
Education Programs for Future Women in Tech
The Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) collaborates with the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) to grant students free access to resources, networking, scholarships, and internships. MSOE also fosters young women’s tech interests through its High School Summer Programs, which provide a week-long residential camp for girls in 10th to 12th grades to explore various engineering and tech disciplines and ponder future career paths.
UW-Milwaukee is a host for the national Girls Who Code program, empowering girls in grades 5-12 to learn about computer science and coding while making connections with other girls. This free after-school program is led by female computer science faculty and college students on campus.
Discovery World’s Girls & STEM event annually bridges the gap between young girls and female role models in the STEM fields through face-to-face interactions and enriching conversations. Hosting over 20 exhibitors and organizations, the event provides guests with a variety of hands-on activities and captivating demonstrations. This dynamic event has successfully drawn in more than 1,600 attendees, showcasing its popularity and impact in inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.
The Bright Future of Women in Tech
The outlook for women in tech, particularly in Milwaukee, is exceptionally promising. With support from community groups, growing recognition of the importance of diversity in the tech field, and more women ascending to leadership roles, the tech industry is becoming ever more inclusive. This enriches the tech ecosystem with new perspectives and leads to innovative tech solutions.
Here’s to the women in tech of Milwaukee—the trailblazers, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow. Thanks to you, your contributions, limitless potential, and inspiring achievements pave the way for a future that is not just female but technologically brilliant.