Fix IT

The Fix IT project aims to increase the enrollment and retention of women in the IT sector. It is a collaboration between NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, Connect.frl, Snakeware and DLA-ICT. The project is funded by a grant from the European Social Fund.

Motivation

The Dutch IT sector is facing a severe labor shortage. A significant cause is the strong underrepresentation of women in both IT education and IT jobs. This phenomenon has undesirable societal and economic consequences, such as unequal opportunities for women and underutilization of labor market potential. The issue is exacerbated by a “leaky pipeline”: women with a technical profile are less likely to choose IT education, drop out more frequently, are less likely to pursue IT jobs, and leave the sector faster than men. Factors such as a lack of self-confidence, the absence of perceived social relevance, and a male-dominated work environment contribute to this issue.

Project approach 

This project aims to address the ‘’leaky pipeline’’ of women in IT careers. The ultimate goal is to promote gender equality within labor organizations in the IT and other STEM sectors. The project focuses on the entire career chain, from increasing the enrollment and retention of female students in IT education to improving the entry and retention of women in IT jobs. Additionally, insights and practical tools will be adapted for use in other STEM sectors.

The project builds on previous research, existing networks, and a developed intervention toolbox. It consists of four work packages, implemented simultaneously in Northern and Eastern Netherlands. The approach involves collaboration among NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, IT companies Snakeware and DLA-ICT, and the Connect.frl consortium. NHL Stenden and Windesheim provide research expertise and train future IT professionals. Snakeware and DLA-ICT offer practical experience for interventions, while Connect.frl ensures scalability to other organizations. Through combined expertise and networks, the project aims to promote gender equality in the IT and STEM sectors. 

Project partners: 

NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, IT companies Snakeware and DLA-ICT, and the Connect.frl consortium