What is the relationship between innovation, technology and gender equality?

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global event celebrated annually on March 8th.

This year's theme for IWD is "DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality", which aims to recognise and celebrate women and girls, championing the advancement of transformative technology and digital education.

The UN Women's Gender Snapshot 2022 report found that women's exclusion from the digital world has shaved $1 trillion from the gross domestic product of low- and middle-income countries in the last decade. Our goal at AtkinsRéalis is to ensure that women feel included, have an equal voice and that we're sensitive to your individual needs and ambitions. 

Technology and innovation close the digital gender divide and here is how: 

Creative solutions 

A published study about Innovation found that companies with women were more likely to introduce radical new innovations into the market over a two-year period. Diverse individuals bring unique experiences and perspectives to the table which can lead to new ideas and approaches that have not been considered before.

Gender equality creates a culture of openness and inclusivity that encourages individuals to bring their full selves to the workplace. At AtkinsRéalis , we want our employees to feel comfortable and safe in and out of the workplace.

We found that over 70% of women say they have experienced sexual harassment in public. Women shouldn't have to make any adjustments to feel safe, whether that is changing their behaviour, or changing their route so we introduced the Getting Home Safely Initiative.

Data-driven decision making

There's growing evidence that when women occupy multiple leadership roles, smarter decisions are made. that when women occupy multiple leadership roles, smarter decisions are made. Technology enables decision-making based on facts and figures rather than subjective opinions.

Involving diverse individuals in the decision-making process leads to a more comprehensive understanding of the problem and ultimately results in solutions that are gender-inclusive, benefitting everyone.

At AtkinsRéalis , women are empowered to succeed and lead change in the industry.

Kimberly, Vice-President, Practice Lead Waterpower & Geotechnical, started at AtkinsRéalis in 2011 straight out of college. She believes that "integrating people of diverse backgrounds to our workforce leads to improved practices and policies that enhance the delivery and quality of our services". 

Removing barriers to inclusivity

The combination of technology and gender equality breaks down barriers. Not only does it open organisations up to new talent pools, but it also gives diverse people access to technology and allows them to contribute to the innovation process.

Gender equality promotes inclusive design and engineering, which takes into consideration the needs and experiences of women and diverse people.

Our focus at AtkinsRéalis is to break the glass ceiling for women by making tangible improvements. We invest heavily in our female employees at all career stages by equipping them with individualised development opportunities. 

Technology is rapidly changing and we give you access to the digital tools you need to take your career wherever you want it to go. 

Everyone deserves to feel like they belong - no exceptions

Equality, diversity and inclusion are woven into everything we do at AtkinsRéalis and this is our greatest strength. By setting commitments and implementing initiatives such as the Women's Development Programme and the Women's Professional Network, the organisation is working towards a more equitable and inclusive workplace. 

We recognise that diversity is essential for fostering innovation, creating positive change in society, and driving business success. Different makes a difference. Be part of our inclusive community and explore careers at AtkinsRéalis.