Technology

Technology careers range from software developer to ethical hacker and everything in between. Computer programmers do exactly what their title describes: they write new code for everything from laptops to medical instruments. Software engineers also write code and create new apps. Cryptographers use code and ciphers to guard important information from hackers. You might also consider a career in artificial intelligence which is considered a relatively new technology. It involves creating programs so computers can make decisions and problem solve. Don’t think coding is for you? Website designers combine art and computer science to help companies and organizations create clear, impactful webpages. Data scientists use math, business, and machine learning to resolve problems in many settings, from optimizing fast food delivery to distributing new medicines. You might consider having a hand in user experience, tech journalism, or even cartography!

If you're interested in working with technology, there is a way for you to put your skills to use in virtually any STEM field. Take Susan Kare, an artist who combined a creative flare with a love for technology and pioneered graphics for the first Apple computers. Or Radia Perlman, who created the spinning tree algorithm, necessary for the Internet, after studying both math and computer science. Or Joy Buolamwini, whose groundbreaking work in fighting for unbiased and fair algorithms has led to important conversations about the ethics of technology. Each of these women used her position to make positive change in the world of technology. You don't always have to know exactly what you want to do starting out. Elizabeth Bondi, a PhD candidate in Computer Science (interview below), shared she felt a bit scared when faced with all of the opportunities available in STEAM. However, she encourages exploring and looking into a variety of fields that seem interesting through opportunities such as clubs and internships. By exploring different options and paying attention to what you enjoy, you're sure to find your way in STEAM. Check out what some amazing women have to say about finding their path in this fascinating field! (Click to read their profile pages with interviews.)

Want to find out more about the opportunities available in technology? Check out some of these great resources:

"Career Paths in Technology"

"Cyber Security Careers"

Love technology, but also interested in math? Check out the Math page!