Scotland Women in Technology (SWiT) has just launched its second national award scheme that recognises exceptional women working in the technology sector. Nominations are open until the 24th of August and can be made online. The winners will be announced at the award ceremony, which will be held in October in Glasgow.

The award ceremony serves as a platform to celebrate, champion and recognise outstanding women working in tech. Another aim of the event is to inspire the next generation of females to pursue a career in the sector by highlighting industry role-models.

Fierce Competition Expected

There are ten categories for this year’s awards including rising star, inspirational woman of the year, gender diversity champion of the year and the lifetime achievement award. It is expected that this year’s competition will be even more intense than last year, which received over 100 nominations.

The 2017 inaugural award ceremony enjoyed an exceptional turnout with more than 300 guests, including industry heavyweights and Scottish Government ministers in attendance. Last year, Amazon was the event’s gold sponsor and  due to the company’s ongoing commitment to championing gender diversity will be headline sponsor for 2018.

Lynsey Campbell, Chair of Scotland Women in Technology, said:

“Last year’s event was a huge success, but this year will be even bigger and better. We want to champion the talented women working in technology and those supporting the gender equality in technology agenda.”

“I hope these awards inspire girls to pursue technology as a career and act as a reminder the sector is home to many talented and trailblazing women.”

“We are delighted with the response we have had from the sector, particularly Amazon who are our headline supporters, and we look forward to receiving hundreds of nominations.”

Graeme Smith, Managing Director of Amazon’s Development Centre in Edinburgh, said:

“Championing diversity and gender equality in the technology sector, both now and for future generations, is a key priority for us at Amazon.”

“That’s why we’re supporting the SWIT awards for a second year. We want to help shine a spotlight on some of Scotland’s most inspirational female technology leaders and encourage more young women to pursue a career in technology and innovation.”

Last year’s winner of CEO of the year, Jeanette Forbes, said:

“Being named CEO of the year at the inaugural Scottish Women in Technology Awards was a huge milestone in my career.”

“With so many outstanding candidates for this award, I never expected to win, and I was humbled that I had been chosen.”

“Being recognised for making a difference in a sector that is predominantly male is so important for women. We make an immense contribution to our industry.”