Technology — a world full of computers, types of machinery, codes, software, and applications — a word that was unknown to many women during the early 18th century across the globe, specifically in the United States. During the early 1700s, women were not intended to pursue their interests, rather, they were to remain in their domestic sphere and perform daily household tasks. However, a major shift occurred during World War II when women were able to take on wartime occupational jobs. Various mathematicians, computer programmers, and scientists contributed to their societies by showcasing their logical and problem-solving skills. During the 1700s, one of the early individuals, Nicole- Rein Lepautre, a French astronomer and mathematician, contributed to the field of astronomy by accurately predicting a comet’s appearance in the night sky. This paved the way for trailblazers like Ada Lovelace, who in the 1800s became known as a remarkable woman who is known as the first-ever computer programmer and scientist. Lovelace paved the way for women in technology tremendously. Her work ethic strongly portrays her inspiration to other women in the technology field.

As the timeline progresses, the evolution of women’s strengths, bravery, and courage are showcased. Factors such as the market and the industrial revolution significantly affected women’s roles in the technology field. As the need for women grew larger, during the midst of the Second World War, many women gained the experience of working in factories with large machinery. According to statistics, data shows that by the year 1900, 80 percent of telephone operators were women and progressed as the main operators by the 1960s. Theories developed that led to logical thinking, and modern computer algebra emerged as a consequence. As a result of the Second World War, many women became computer programmers; however, they were not recognized highly. Moreover, in 1945 during the wave of feminism, society saw large numbers of women as computer programmers, later they would be recognized as “human computers.” 

During the 20th century, society saw many individuals whose legacies and stories are still known today. Their role in the field of computer science helped shape society and modern technology. To name a few, Grace Hopper was a prominent computer scientist who created the first computer programming language all in English, and Annie Easley advocated for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields while simultaneously working as a computer programmer at NASA. Their contributions to society have overall affected computer science and programming, which created a significant increase of women in technology. 

Within the technology industry, statistics further illustrate that the percentage of women receiving computer science bachelor’s degrees has increased from 1970 to 2019, from 14 percent to 21 percent, respectively. During the years, the percentage peaked in 1985; however, it significantly decreased following 2019. Despite the rise of women seen in technology and engineering fields, women have also faced a significant gender gap with employment rates and lower as well as unfair wages. Although women are the minority in the technology field, they have made remarkable contributions to society that have been impactful, and their achievements will continue to stay as a legacy. All in all, the evolution of women in the technology industry has undergone significant changes. Currently, in the modern era, many advocates are raising awareness about the distinct differences in the gender gap. Ultimately, as women faced difficulty in the industries, their bravery and confidence highlighted their determination.