The finalists for the annual FDM everywoman in Technology Awards have been announced. Now in their 11^th year, the awards celebrate the tech industry’s most exceptional talent, from the UK and beyond, creating role models to inspire the next generation of tech stars.

From women developing technology to support the Covid-19 vaccine roll-out and the NHS’s fight against the virus, to those running businesses that assist developing economies, to the young rising stars that place diversity and inclusion at the forefront of their organisations, the 88 finalists are all united by one common goal – to create a legacy founded on people, planet and purpose, a legacy that leaves the world in a better place than they found it.

The tumultuous events of 2020 led to transformative changes in the technology industry and accelerated the UK’s digital future by over five years [1]. As the pandemic continues to shape the needs of society, the sector is expected to adapt ever more rapidly in 2021. Developing drugs and vaccinations, expanding home working and education tech, addressing sustainability and environmental impact, and developing AI solutions are just some of the challenges the industry faces as it looks to improve lives. Research shows that diverse teams are better positioned to unlock innovation and drive growth [2] so at this critical juncture it is crucial that tech continues to attract a talented and diverse workforce.

In a major step forward, for the first time over one million women are now working in STEM [3]. However, the impact of the pandemic means that one in four women are currently considering "downshifting" their careers or leaving the workforce, which risks both a skills gap and a setback for gender parity [4]. This is why the role played by the awards in promoting careers and showcasing the achievements and networks of women working in the sector is so important.

This year’s finalists will join everywoman’s alumnus of hundreds of incredible women in technology, from talented students through to high-performing entrepreneurs and CEOs. 

The 2021 FDM everywoman in Technology finalists can be found here.

Winners will be announced at an experiential virtual ceremony on 4th March 2021. The ceremony will broadcast a number of documentary-style films driven by the insights, experiences and hopes of finalists and stakeholders. Young people starting their journeys into tech will pose questions and challenges to women on the cutting edge, whilst interviewees share stories of inspirational women in tech - past and present - celebrating the legacy of women in the industry.  

Maxine Benson MBE, Co-Founder of everywoman, comments: “We are thrilled to announce the 2021 FDM everywoman in Technology Awards finalists. From supporting front-line efforts against Covid-19, to managing systems and software that have kept the country moving, these individuals showcase the critical role that technology has played over the past year. The vital advancements technology is making towards saving, transforming and improving lives is more evident now than ever before, making our mission to supply a strong future pipeline of technological talent of the utmost importance.”

Sheila Flavell CBE, Chief Operating Officer of FDM Group, comments: “These awards are a celebration of the talent, hard work and commitment shown by so many women in the technology industry. At a time when the Covid-19 pandemic has tested frontline services - including our NHS - to the limit, the role of technology in keeping critical services running, connecting loved ones, and saving lives has never been more important. Technology has played a crucial role in fighting against this crisis and it will also play a profound role in the recovery. I’m so proud to congratulate the finalists in everything they’ve achieved so far and wish them all good luck! It’s no exaggeration to say that their skills, enthusiasm and energy are needed now more than ever.”