Only 27% of female respondents say they would 2 consider a career in technology, compared to 62% of males Females are less likely than males to Figure 1: Thinking about your future career plans, would you consider a career in technology?7 consider a technology career The STEM gender gap at school and university carries 45% 42% on through to girls’ career choices. Only 27% of our 40% female respondents overall say they would consider a career in technology, compared to 62% of males. And 35% only 3% of females say a career in technology is their 30% 28% first choice, against 15% of males. Similarly, 5% of 26% 26% females say technology is one of a number of choices 25% they could consider, compared to 19% of males. 20% 19% 19% 15% 15% 11% “I could pass exams in STEM subjects, but not to the 10% same grade as essay subjects. I also found that I did 5% 3% 5% 5% not enjoy the lessons to the same degree - I prefer 0% 0% subjects where it is about the arguments you make, Male Female rather than getting the ‘right’ answer.” Yes – this is my first choice Yes – it’s one of a number of choices I’d consider Female pre-university student Yes – it’s not my first choice but I would consider this No – probably not No – definitely not Don’t know Figure 1 illustrates the stark contrast between females and males in terms of their readiness to consider a career in technology. Indeed, 61% of females in our study say they’ve been put off a career in technology because they’ve been given so little information or advice about what working in the sector involves. At the same time, 26% of female students say technology is too male-dominated, and 20% that it’s not creative enough. 7Source: PwC Women in Technology research study 7 PwC