Trailblazer IT apprentices leading the path for women in tech

The number of women in the technology industry is growing at a rate of 238% faster than men, according to Sphero, showcasing the wide road being paved for the future women in IT.

With the theme of International Women's Day 2016 #pledgeforparity, Firebrand celebrates the next generation of young women breaking the glass ceiling for girls in tech in the 21st century.

Firebrand has historically done a disservice to the multitude of women in the IT industry by allowing so many to exist in relative anonymity, relying on famous figureheads like Mark Zuckerberg and Tim Cook when referencing the industry.

Female apprentices paving the way for women in tech

While underrepresented as a whole across STEM subjects, there is an increasing number of high profile women pushing the technology agenda forward such as Sheryl Sandberg (COO of Facebook) and Marissa Mayer (CEO of Yahoo). Firebrand's female IT apprentices gave their thoughts on how the industry can inspire more young women:

Kimberley Bolton, Microsoft Apprentice of the Year 2014

Highlighting the importance of both men and women being role models for girls in tech, Kimberley says, "Many of the males I've worked with have been the foundations for my achievements and I'm lucky to have made great friendships with many of them."

Jamila Telliam, Support Technician

"I believe the interest should be encouraged from home as well as in school and it's great that schools are encouraging young people to start coding."

Guen-Ziu Dang, IT Support Technician

"My apprenticeship facilitator has been in the IT industry for more or less than 10 years. Hearing her stories (what companies she used to work for, how she got to where she is) really inspired me and I'm grateful to have her look after me as an apprentice."

Jane Simmons, Developer

"If anything, now is the best time for women to show interest in IT. They are more likely to be taken on and accepted by companies for work experience and apprenticeships because the computer world needs more of them - for fresh ideas and a new way to look at the field."

Inspire a generation of female IT pioneers with Trailblazer apprenticeships

For over three years, Firebrand has been opening the doors to future female leaders in IT, giving them a route into in an industry historically dominated by men. With IT apprentice employers nationwide hiring female apprentices, Firebrand is inspiring the future generations of women continuing to inform, educate and develop cutting-edge technology by delivering higher and intermediate trailblazer apprenticeships.