In today’s digital age, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, we are constantly surrounded by technology. However, there is a significant gender gap when it comes to the tech industry. According to a report by Girls Who Code, only 24% of computing jobs are held by women in coding. This gender gap has created a lack of diversity in the tech industry, and it is important to encourage girls to code to help close this gap.

In this blog, we will talk about how famous women have significantly contributed to the coding industry and how we as a society can encourage this idea further. So, let’s get started!

What is Coding? 

Coding is the process of creating instructions for a computer to follow. These instructions are written in a programming language that the computer can understand. Coding is essential in the tech industry, as it is used to develop software, websites, and mobile applications. In recent years, coding has become a highly sought-after skill, and it is estimated that by 2025, there will be 85 million jobs that require coding skills. Let’s have a look at some of the famous key programmers in the world.

Famous Women Contributed to Coding

Grace Hopper: A pioneer in computer science, Grace Hopper is famous for developing the first compiler and coining the term “debugging.” She was among the first programmers to work on the Harvard Mark I computer.

Ada Lovelace: Considered by many to be the world’s first computer programmer, Ada Lovelace was a mathematician who worked with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine. She wrote what is considered to be the first computer program in the mid-1800s.

Jean Jennings Bartik: As one of the original programmers of the ENIAC computer, Jean Bartik played a crucial role in the early days of computing. She later went on to work for several other companies, including IBM.

Radia Perlman: Known as the “Mother of the Internet,” Radia Perlman is a computer scientist who is famous for her work on the Spanning Tree Protocol, which helped to create the foundation for modern networking.

Sister Mary Kenneth Keller: A pioneer in computer science education, Sister Mary Kenneth Keller was the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in computer science in the United States. She was also instrumental in the development of the BASIC programming language.

Shafi Goldwasser: A computer scientist and mathematician, Shafi Goldwasser is famous for her work in cryptography and complexity theory. She has won numerous awards for her contributions to the field of computer science.

Why do we want to Encourage Girls to code?

• Encouraging girls to learn how to code is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to bridge the gender gap in the tech industry. Women are underrepresented in the tech industry, and this lack of diversity can have a negative impact on innovation and creativity. When there is a diverse group of people working on a project, there are more perspectives, ideas, and approaches to problem-solving. This can lead to better products and services that cater to a wider audience.
• Secondly, coding is a skill that can lead to high-paying jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $91,250 in May 2020. By encouraging girls to learn how to code, we can help them gain the skills they need to pursue a career in the tech industry and earn a competitive salary.
• Thirdly, learning how to code can improve problem-solving skills. Coding requires logical thinking and problem-solving skills. When girls learn how to code, they develop these skills, which can be applied to other areas of their lives. By learning how to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts, girls can improve their problem-solving abilities in other areas, such as math and science.
• Finally, learning how to code can boost confidence and creativity. When girls learn how to code, they gain a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. They are able to create something from scratch and see it come to life on a computer screen. This can boost their confidence and inspire them to continue learning and exploring new things. Additionally, coding allows for creativity, as there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating software, websites, and applications.

How can we encourage more girls to code? 

One way is to provide access to coding education and resources. Schools can offer coding classes and clubs, and community organizations can offer coding workshops and camps. There are also several online resources that offer coding tutorials and courses, such as Code.org, Khan Academy, and Scratch.

Another way to encourage girls to code is to provide role models and mentors. When girls see other women with successful careers in the tech industry, it can inspire them to pursue a similar path. By connecting girls with female mentors in the tech industry, they can receive guidance and support as they learn how to code and pursue a career in tech.

Additionally, it is important to create a supportive and inclusive environment for girls who are learning how to code. Girls may face stereotypes and biases that discourage them from pursuing tech careers. By creating a safe and supportive environment, we can help girls feel empowered to pursue their passions and overcome any obstacles they may face.

Conclusion

In conclusion, encouraging girls to code is important for bridging the gender gap in the tech industry, creating a more diverse and innovative workforce, and providing girls with the skills they need to pursue high-paying careers. By providing access to coding education, role models, and supportive environments, we can help girls.

Checkout the diverse coding courses on BrightCHAMPS for your kids and help them gain insightful guidance in this flourishing field!

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Did You Know?
The First Programmer ever in the world is Ada Lovelace.
Resource: Article about Adalovelace

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