Stephanie Dismore began her career in tech at HP marketing calculators. Now, as the Vice President & General Manager, Americas Channels at HP, and a member of CTA’s Executive Board, we asked her to reflect on her career and experience as a woman in the tech industry:

Do you think enough is being done in the technology industry to address gender imbalance? If not, what do you hope to see?

While it’s far from perfect, it's a great time to be a woman in tech.We are collectively gaining momentum, we are reinventing mindsets, and we have an opportunity like never before to impact change, level the playing field, and chart a course for the future.We must each do our part to mitigate bias and support the advancement of women in business. And while there is still much work to be done, I’m energized by the progress we’re making in narrowing the gender gap and promoting greater diversity, and I’m optimistic that future generations of women will live and work in a more fairly represented and inclusive world.

What is your company doing to create additional opportunities for women in your workforce?

Women now represent 30 percent of HP’s senior leaders and comprise 36 percent of HP’s workforce worldwide,

which is strong representation for a technology company, but not good enough for us. HP has a bold vision for what the future can look like, and it has a lot more women and underrepresented groups contributing to the health and success of our business.

In support of this vision, and as part of HP’s efforts to reinvent the standard for diversity, HP embeds diversity and inclusion in talent acquisition and development, culture, mentoring, training, and events. In celebration of International Women’s Day, HP also recently announced the expansion of its social impact programs to accelerate its gender equity efforts.

What advice would you give women working in a male dominated industry?

As one of few female executives in the male-dominated technology industry, I'm sometimes the only woman in the room, and over time I've learned that being a woman in business represents an opportunity, not an obstacle. I don’t have to be a man or pretend to be like one; I just need to be my authentic self and focus on what I have to offer. As women, each of us brings a unique, valuable perspective to business, and we should use our differences as strengths to set us apart and lead with authenticity and passion.

Research shows that young girls often don’t pursue careers in tech at the same rate as their male counterparts. What inspired you to start a career in the technology industry?

My first job in tech was at HP, marketing calculators in the early aughts, at a time when the technology was no longer considered cutting-edge. I’ve always been drawn to a challenge, and because I’m not a scientist or an engineer, I was immediately excited by the prospect of learning how to successfully market the technology to make it relevant again, while also learning to navigate a new role.

It was also evident then that the ever-evolving nature of the tech industry would provide limitless opportunities for learning, development and growth – all of which have remained important throughout my career.

As a member of CTA’s Board of Directors, what are you most excited about that the organization is doing to advance opportunities for women in tech?

I am so proud of the work that CTA is doing on behalf of women in technology. From start-ups to senior leaders of Fortune 50 companies, CTA is providing resources, communities, and support to women in technology around the world. I am particularly excited about CTA’s recent announcement of a $10 million investment in venture firms and funds focused on women, people of color and other underrepresented startups and entrepreneurs. CTA is a true leader and is trailblazing a path within our industry.

Learn more about CTA’s diversity and inclusion initiatives.