Navigating the Path of Women in Software Engineering: From Academia to Industry
Authors: Tatalina Oliveira, 
Ann Barcomb, Ronnie De Souza Santos, Helda Barros, Maria Teresa Baldassarre, Cesar FrançaAuthors Info & Claims
Ann Barcomb, Ronnie De Souza Santos, Helda Barros, Maria Teresa Baldassarre, Cesar FrançaAuthors Info & ClaimsPages 154 - 165
Abstract
Context. Women remain significantly underrepresented in software engineering, leading to a lasting gender gap in the software industry. This disparity starts in education and extends into the industry, causing challenges such as hostile work environments and unequal opportunities. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering an inclusive and diverse software engineering workforce. Aim. This study aims to enhance the literature on women in software engineering, exploring their journey from academia to industry and discussing perspectives, challenges, and support. We focus on Brazilian women to extend existing research, which has largely focused on North American and European contexts. Method. In this study, we conducted a cross-sectional survey, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data, focusing on women's experiences in software engineering to explore their journey from university to the software industry. Findings. Our findings highlight persistent challenges faced by women in software engineering, including gender bias, harassment, work-life imbalance, undervaluation, low sense of belonging, and impostor syndrome. These difficulties commonly emerge from university experiences and continue to affect women throughout their entire careers. Conclusion. In summary, our study identifies systemic challenges in women's software engineering journey, emphasizing the need for organizational commitment to address these issues. We provide actionable recommendations for practitioners.
LAY ABSTRACT. Women in software engineering confront enduring underrepresentation, creating a gender gap evident from education to industry. Increasing the participation of women in the software industry is essential for the development of systems that reflect the diversity of our society. This study explores women's journey within software engineering, highlighting challenges and proposing strategies for software companies to address gender imbalance effectively.
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