About Us
Who we are
In 1948, the Math department of Bell Laboratories, the most prolific inventor of fundamental technologies, was gender balanced with nearly 50% women. Today only 26% of the US technology workforce is women. An alarming discrepancy, especially during the current Tech revolution, when machines, designed and trained by humans, are increasingly becoming the decision makers of our society. Software is in every aspect of our lives. Without equitable gender representation in the Tech workforce, smart machines will become biased, resulting in serious negative consequences.
And thus Vision 1948 was formed - founded by a few woman technologists with Bell Laboratories roots who have a passion to leverage their knowledge and experience to change the face of Tech.
We believe awareness, education and representation are key to girls and women in wanting to pursue an education and career in technology. There are several major societal barriers:
- Girls are not encouraged to learn coding or technology.
- Lack of female characters in technology in entertainment media.
- Important contributions by woman in technology are not featured in historical records.
- Many workplaces do not provide a welcoming environment in the hiring, retention and development of women in the technology sector.
WE ARE TAKING ACTIONS TO ADDRESS EACH OF THESE ROOT CAUSES
Our Mission
Bring gender parity back to tech by encouraging and empowering girls and women to pursue computing/technology education and careers through increased education and awareness, influencing workplace policies/practices and advocating positive media portrayal.
Our Vision
We envision the Technology Workforce in the US to reflect the gender demographics of the population it serves. Women and men will be equal partners in engagement, innovation, leadership and decision making.
Our Leadership Team
Laurie Barsotti
Vision 1948 Co-Lead
Public Awareness Pillar Lead
Tina Hinch
Vision 1948 Co-Lead
Education Pillar Co-Lead
Anne Lee
Media Pillar Lead
Marge Hillis
Historian
Education Pillar Co-Lead
Vision 1948 is an AAUW Naperville Area (IL) Initiative. AAUW Naperville Area is a 501c4 organization.