Closing the Gap: Why AI Literacy is the New Power Move for Women in Tech

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, technology is only as good as the people building and using it. However, significant challenges remain. From AI recruitment tools that favor male names to the rise of online harassment, the digital world can often feel like an unwelcoming space for women.

3/19/20262 min read

three women sitting on sofa with MacBook
three women sitting on sofa with MacBook

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, technology is only as good as the people building and using it. However, significant challenges remain. From AI recruitment tools that favor male names to the rise of online harassment, the digital world can often feel like an unwelcoming space for women.

At Progress Trust, we are changing that narrative through our AI for Women in Tech initiative. Whether you are a professional returning after a career break or a student curious about the future, AI literacy is your most powerful asset.

1. Supporting Career Returners

Returning to a tech-heavy workforce after a break can be daunting. Our workshops help "Level 2" Practitioners bridge the gap by mastering:

  • Productivity Workflows: Using AI to manage complex projects and automate administrative "noise".

  • Modern Toolkits: Hands-on training with ChatGPT, Claude and Microsoft Copilot to ensure your skills are current.

  • Strategic Positioning: Leveraging your previous experience alongside new AI capabilities to stand out to employers.

2. Inspiring the Next Generation

The future of tech starts with the girls in our classrooms today. We work with 12 and 13-year-olds to show them what a career in technology actually looks like—beyond the stereotypes.

  • Role Models: Connecting young students with mentors and real-world examples of women leading in AI.

  • Ethical Innovation: Teaching students to identify and challenge gender bias in AI models, such as those used in medical screening for liver disease.

3. Creating a Safer Digital Community

Safety isn't just a feature; it's a right. A core pillar of our training is Safe AI Use, specifically addressing:

  • Online Harassment: Practical strategies for navigating and mitigating abuse in digital spaces.

  • Data Privacy: Ensuring your personal and professional information remains secure while using generative tools.

The Progress Trust Mission

We aren't just teaching people how to use tools; we are building a more representative and ethical tech ecosystem. By focusing on Practical AI, we ensure that women in Birmingham have the skills to lead, not just follow.

🚀 Pilot Opportunity:

Are you part of a women's network or a community group supporting career returners? We are offering Pilot Workshops for £250 to help launch our "AI for All" programme.

Let’s build a tech future that works for everyone. Contact Progress Trust to book a session or learn about our curriculum development.