Technically Speaking: WICT's Latest Project Taking Root

WICT‘s "Tech It Out" initiative to encourage more women and girls to pursue careers in technology is moving along steadily since its Nov debut. Some of the fruits of the fledgling program will be seen at next month’s Cable Show in Las Vegas. WICT convinced NCTA to provide to the show 15 floor passes that will go to the UNLV chapter of the Society of Women Engineers, exposing 15 students to the industry. The Tech It Out initiative, first announced in the Nov 13 issue of CableWorld, is also readying tool kits that can be used in their companies and with schools, said WICT pres/CEO Benita Fitzgerald Mosley. Next month, WICT’s Philly chapter will host a mentoring program to educate girls about opportunities in cable. WICT’s also talking to cable operators about offering its "Tech It Out" videos and PSAs aimed at girls and young women on VOD (Comcast is already offering the video on demand in several markets, including DC and Philly). At a WICT N VA chapter lunch Thurs, Alcatel CIO Elizabeth Hackenson and Advance Newhouse evp Nomi Bergman talked about opportunities for women in tech. Hackenson said she tries to persuade marketing execs to consider technology careers because she needs better communicators. Bergman seconded the notion, saying that women’s skill set as communicators and translators aligns itself well with one of the biggest needs in the tech sector. Other Tech It Out activities underway include working with Cable in the Classroom on podcasts and school resources, as well a panel and reception at SCTE Expo in Orlando, June 20.