AI boosts women’s careers, but many face skills gap
According to a recent report by Nasscom and the Boston Consulting Group, a striking 90% of women view generative AI as vital to their professional advancement, recognising these tools as essential for career development. Despite this strong interest, only 35% feel adequately prepared to utilise these technologies, with the gap in readiness particularly pronounced in non-technical roles.
Generative AI is projected to constitute 33% of the global AI market by 2027, with the overall AI industry expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 25-35%, potentially reaching a market size of $320-380 billion.
The report also highlights a deep commitment among women to excel in AI and Generative AI fields: 95% of junior professionals, 96% of those in mid-management, and every senior respondent expressed a willingness to invest additional time for their professional growth.
In technical roles, 45% of women reported a boost in confidence after gaining proficiency with AI tools, with 20% using these tools almost daily. However, barriers such as limited knowledge, lack of trust, and restricted access continue to impede wider adoption, especially among senior professionals.
Sheila Flavell CBE, Chief Operating Officer for FDM Group, commented: "AI development is showing no signs of slowing down, so it's important that staff equip themselves with the skills and understanding to bring it into their role. AI has the potential to level the playing field in the workplace, closing the gender gap in tech, and those adept in maximising its benefits, while mitigating risks, will be highly sought after to lead AI projects."
“Businesses should recognise the transformative potential that AI can have, not only for their business but for their people, and provide training boot camps to support staff. As part of this, businesses should implement experiential learning into their training, giving staff hands-on experience with the AI technologies they'll be using in their day-to-day to ensure they feel comfortable and confident to make AI work for them."
The report highlights the need to address these challenges, including knowledge gaps to increase gen AI adoption among women.
Lauren Hine, Chief for UK Marketing & Alliances and Women in Tech Ambassador for AND Digital commented: "As businesses continue to embrace AI, it is set to dominate the tech industry, but it is essential to tackle the challenges of digital transformation through focused reskilling and upskilling initiatives. Women love tech and are eager to learn and excel in the field.
“The commitment is evident, with 79% of senior women in tech feeling successful, according to the AND Digital Rewards & Resilience report. To maintain and even elevate this success, businesses must continue to invest in skills training for women, taking a people AND innovation approach, ensuring they remain empowered and ready to thrive in the evolving industry."
