Social networking improving women's IT skills

13:07 11th July 2008

Social networking tools will encourage more women to consider a career in IT, according to one senior female IT leader.

The director of BT Tradespace, Jennifer Mowat, told computing.co.uk that gender need not be a barrier to success in the IT industry, as more women come across electronic tools that people are using.

This view goes against previous research by the computing site, which disclosed that nine out of ten women in IT felt discriminated against.

"Girls should be encouraged to think about IT as a career option," Mrs Mowat said.

"When you are running a website, no-one cares if you're a 20-year-old women or a 50-year-old man."

Last year's British Computer Society Industry awards highlighted the emergence of women in the IT sector - with women wining in the categories of IT trainer of the year, project manager of the year and scoop service manager of the year.

Computeach offers IT courses and careers advice to help you start your career in IT.