The tech industry has long been a male-dominated space, with only a small percentage of women—especially women of color—represented in leadership positions. However, the rise of Black women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is an exciting and powerful shift that is breaking barriers, sparking innovation, and transforming the landscape of technology. From software development to artificial intelligence, these trailblazing women are not only making significant contributions but are also paving the way for future generations of Black girls to enter and excel in tech.
Breaking the Mold: Challenges and Triumphs
Historically, Black women have faced unique challenges in tech, from underrepresentation and bias to a lack of mentorship and access to resources. Despite these obstacles, the rise of Black women tech innovators is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and determination to make a lasting impact. These women have defied the odds by excelling in industries that have been historically difficult to penetrate, leading some of the most influential companies and creating tech solutions that are changing the world.
Black Women Shaping the Future of Tech
1. Kimberly Bryant – Founder of Black Girls Code
Kimberly Bryant is a trailblazer in the tech world who saw the lack of diversity in the field and took action. In 2011, she founded Black Girls Code, a nonprofit organization that aims to teach young girls of color programming and computer science skills. With a mission to increase the number of women of color in the tech space, Bryant has empowered thousands of young Black girls to pursue careers in technology, inspiring them to dream big and break barriers.
Why She Inspires: Kimberly’s work is transforming the future of tech by making coding and STEM education accessible to young Black women, providing them with the tools they need to lead in the tech industry.
2. Dr. Ayanna Howard – Robotics Pioneer and Entrepreneur
Dr. Ayanna Howard is a renowned robotics engineer, educator, and entrepreneur who has had a major influence on the development of intelligent systems and AI. She is the founder of Zyrobotics, a company focused on creating educational technologies that help children, especially those with disabilities, learn in innovative ways. As a professor and the chair of the School of Interactive Computing at Georgia Tech, Dr. Howard has become a role model for aspiring engineers, with a career that proves the power of perseverance and innovation.
Why She Inspires: Dr. Howard’s work in robotics and AI is groundbreaking, with a focus on improving the lives of children through technology. Her commitment to inclusion and accessibility in tech is reshaping the future of education and robotics.
3. Tracy Chou – Software Engineer and Advocate for Diversity
Tracy Chou is a software engineer and one of the leading voices in advocating for diversity in tech. She is the founder of Project Include, an initiative that works to create diverse and inclusive workplaces in the tech industry. Chou has also worked at major tech companies like Pinterest and is known for her efforts in improving gender diversity in Silicon Valley.
Why She Inspires: Tracy’s advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry has sparked important conversations about creating more equitable environments for women, especially women of color, in STEM fields.
4. Megan Smith – Former U.S. Chief Technology Officer
Megan Smith made history in 2014 when she was appointed as the U.S. Chief Technology Officer (CTO) under President Barack Obama, becoming one of the first Black women to hold this position. Prior to her appointment, Smith was a former Google executive, where she worked on developing Google’s innovative products. As CTO, Smith worked to improve the government’s technological infrastructure and promote innovation across all sectors of society.
Why She Inspires: Megan’s work at the intersection of technology and government has helped drive national policy and innovation in tech, with a special focus on expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in tech.
5. Briana Scurry – Technology Entrepreneur and Data Scientist
Briana Scurry is a tech entrepreneur and data scientist with expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning. As the founder of Shift, a data analytics and AI company, Scurry is using cutting-edge technology to help businesses solve complex challenges. Her commitment to leveraging data to drive business decisions has made her a prominent figure in the field of AI and analytics.
Why She Inspires: Briana’s work in AI and data science showcases the power of technology to solve real-world problems, and she is a great example of how women of color are leading in technical fields that are shaping the future of business and technology.
6. Angela Benton – Founder of NewMe Accelerator
Angela Benton is the founder of NewMe Accelerator, one of the first accelerators aimed at helping underrepresented minorities in tech. NewMe focuses on providing mentorship, resources, and funding to help tech startups led by people of color grow and succeed. Benton is also a highly successful entrepreneur who has used her platform to mentor other women of color who aspire to make an impact in the tech world.
Why She Inspires: Angela’s work with NewMe Accelerator is crucial for fostering diversity in tech, giving aspiring entrepreneurs of color the tools and support they need to succeed in a competitive industry.
The Growing Impact of Black Women in Tech
As the tech industry continues to evolve, more and more Black women are emerging as leaders and innovators, taking on roles that range from software engineers to CEOs of tech companies. Their contributions are not just about technological innovation—they are also about creating a more inclusive, equitable, and diverse tech ecosystem where everyone has a seat at the table.
These women are not just breaking barriers—they are building bridges for the next generation of Black women to enter the world of STEM, giving them the opportunity to shape the future of technology and innovation. They are proving that the tech industry can and should be more inclusive, and they are leading the charge for change.
Encouraging the Next Generation of Innovators
With Black women like Kimberly Bryant, Dr. Ayanna Howard, and Megan Smith paving the way, it is crucial that we continue to support and uplift young Black girls interested in STEM. By creating more mentorship opportunities, expanding access to resources, and providing platforms for these women to share their stories, we can ensure that the rise of Black women in tech continues to flourish.
The future of technology is diverse, and Black women are leading the way in shaping it. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential that we celebrate the achievements of these tech innovators and encourage more women of color to step into the world of STEM. With each new achievement, these women prove that the sky is the limit.
Written by Belinda James
