Code Like a Girl

The phrase “like a girl” is usually used between guys to talk down someone. For example, “throw like a girl,” “fight like a girl,” and even “eat like a girl” are top searches that come up when you search up the phrase. Women in the technological field may be rare at the moment, but that does not mean it is something to be ashamed of. I interviewed Laura Waller, Cal’s new EECS faculty member, who is a perfect example how “coding like a girl” can be empowering and successful.

 

Why do you think there are fewer women than men in the technological field? Is there a stereotype of what kind of person usually pursues such a degree like electrical engineering or computer science?

LW: There’s a lot of research being done on why there are more men in technology than women, and a lot of the reasons are based on historical stereotypes, which continue to persist when our older generations become our role models. The media still portrays engineers and scientists as nerdy, anti-social and having no life outside school. There shouldn’t be a ‘type’ of personality who pursues a technical degree, and if you look around at your EECS classmates, I think you’ll find that they come in all different types. They’re athletes, entrepreneurs, volunteers, party animals… and none of this makes them less of an engineer.

 

Have you personally experienced the discrepancy in the numbers of men versus women in your field?

LW: I do research in Computational Imaging and Optics, which is at the borderline of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Physics. I’ve always been the only female in my research groups, and was often the only female in my class. When I go to conferences there are very few women there, but many of the women I have met in my career have quickly become good friends, because we share a common experience. Being a minority can be a good thing!

 

Why is being a women in the engineering fields awesome?

LW: There is much discussion about the disadvantages that women and minorities face in Engineering, but there are also lots of great advantages, too. It’s easier to stand out, and a constant reminder that you are special. One of my favorite quotes goes, “Always remember that you are unique. Just like everybody else.” Certainly, no one has ever become extraordinary in life by being ordinary, so embrace your differences.

 

Do you think the number of women in the technological fields are increasing? Why is that?

LW: Bill Gates tells a story of giving a talk years ago in Saudi Arabia, where very few women were allowed to study science. He was asked if he could speculate on how the country could become one of the top 10 in technology. His response was “Well, if you’re not fully utilizing half the talent in the country, you’re not going to get too close to the Top 10.” In today’s highly competitive tech market, companies are beginning to realize the huge opportunity that exists in vastly growing their talent pool by creating a culture of inclusion and equity that is welcoming to everyone. There are some innate differences between men and women, and each brings something valuable to the table, differences which should be leveraged. More diverse teams of engineers will have more perspectives to look at a problem from, and come up with more creative solutions. Increasing diversity is not just an issue of social welfare, but also a smart business move.