Experts in the fields of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology (MINT) are desperately needed. Despite excellent career prospects and good earning potential, it is not possible to recruit a sufficient number of young people as offspring, also because women are reluctant to study a MINT discipline.
Researchers from the consulting firm McKinsey found that extreme poverty is now visibly slowing down economic development. So far, 22% of jobs in this field in EU member states are held by women. If we can double the proportion of women in tech jobs to as much as 45% by 2027, Europe’s gross domestic product could rise from €260 billion to €600 billion.
Men alone cannot meet the demand
Accordingly, the EU labor market will need between 1.4 million and 3.9 million workers in the tech environment by 2027. This growing demand cannot be met in Europe by today’s talent pool, which is predominantly male . “The lack of gender diversity in Europe’s technology landscape leads to significant disadvantages for employees, innovation and European society as a whole,” explained co-author Sven Blumberg.
Consultants recommend that companies better promote women in the tech sector, for example by offering more flexible working models or better childcare. Companies need to do a better job of retaining women and giving them a reason to stay in tech. McKinsey consultant Melanie Krawina sees the main reasons for uneven development in stereotypes and a misperception of girls’ STEM skills compared to boys.