The tech sector is evolving fast. Demand for skilled talent continues to grow, but many people still struggle to understand which roles offer long-term career potential. For women in particular, the path can feel even less clear.
Women still make up only 20% of tech roles in the UK. Research also shows that 63% of women feel less confident when job seeking, particularly when facing complex or automated hiring processes. That influences how and where they apply.
But here’s what I know: the door is wide open for women who want to walk through it. Below, I’ve shared which roles are most in-demand right now, and the steps that can help women build thriving, long-term careers in tech.
Which tech roles are most in-demand right now?
The strongest demand right now is in data and AI. Organisations are focused on establishing solid foundations before fully investing in AI solutions, with roles like data analysts and data governance specialists seeing particularly high interest.
There’s also a huge need for junior AI roles. Businesses want tech-savvy people who can grow with the technology, often in project-based or in-house positions like Project Management Officers. These roles allow women to gain experience across the business, even if engineering or development teams are outsourced.
Other high-demand areas include:
- Software engineering
- Cloud
- Information security
- Tech architecture
Many companies are actively creating pipelines into architecture roles, because junior entry points historically haven’t existed. This is a great opportunity for women looking to build long-term careers in technical leadership.
Highest-paying tech roles
The roles with the strongest earning potential currently include:
- Data engineering
- Cloud specialists
- Data scientists
- Machine learning
Salary growth is fastest where skills are scarce and the business impact is high. If you’re aiming for a high-earning trajectory, these areas offer clear progression opportunities. But it’s not just about pay. Women entering tech should focus on gaining hands-on experience and building transferable skills that will let them pivot into different specialisms as technology evolves.
Five ways women can break into in-demand tech roles
Building a successful career in tech isn’t about having all the skills from day one. It’s about curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
Tech careers aren’t linear. Senior professionals all took different paths, so early-career women need to be open-minded about where their journey could lead. Learning the core capabilities and concepts is far more important than mastering every tool immediately, and your attitude will define your journey.
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Build foundational skills
Understanding the principles behind data, AI, software, and cloud gives you a framework to grow. Focus on learning how systems work and developing problem-solving skills. The technical tools can be learned along the way.
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Gain practical experience
Internships, project-based work, or volunteering in tech initiatives provide invaluable exposure. Even small, self-directed projects help build confidence and demonstrate capability to employers.
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Leverage mentoring and communities
Mentorship helps you navigate the tech industry and progression routes. Joining women-in-tech networks like UNBOUND or engaging with online communities can also give support, guidance, and visibility.
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Be open-minded about career pathways
Don’t feel constrained by traditional roles. Some women may start in project management before pivoting into data or AI. Others might explore cloud or software roles before moving into architecture or leadership. Early flexibility creates long-term opportunities.
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Build confidence, resilience, and experience
Entering the tech industry might feel intimidating, but putting yourself forward, asking questions, and applying to training programmes will all help you to grow. At La Fosse Academy, we see many women looking to change roles or gain further experience in the industry, and simply taking the leap into these new settings can build confidence in itself.
Filling that skills gap in a supportive environment is vital for progress, or even just a fresh start.
Putting it into practice
Breaking into tech as a woman requires curiosity, adaptability, and persistence. Start with strong foundations, gain practical experience, find mentors, stay open to different paths, and focus on building confidence. Tech is changing constantly, and this is the perfect time for women to step in and shape their careers.
Ready to find out more?
Find out more about La Fosse Academy here.
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