ICB aims to bridge the gender gap in leadership roles within the tech industry and beyond.
We are dedicated to empowering high-performing female CIO and CTOs with advanced management and leadership skills specifically tailored for the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of technology.
The tech industry has long been known for its lack of diversity, with women being significantly underrepresented in leadership roles. Despite the fact that more and more women are pursuing careers in STEM fields, they are still a minority when it comes to holding top positions within tech companies. This gender gap not only limits opportunities for women but also hinders innovation and growth within the industry.
Women bring unique perspectives and ideas to the table, leading to more well-rounded decision-making and problem-solving. In addition, research has shown that companies with gender-diverse leadership teams have higher financial returns and are more innovative. ICB recognizes the importance of equipping female STEM leaders with the necessary skills to excel in their roles.
Women’s Innovation Study Tour, USA
The ICB Women’s Innovation Study Tour (IWIST) is a transformative program designed to elevate high-performing female CIO and CTO STEM champions. Connecting these dynamic leaders, the program amplifies their collective knowledge, extends their global networks, and ignites inspiration for impactful transformation.
The core of its enduring value is a Cisco Executive (Americas or APJC) being paired with each participant for six months of post program mentoring. Beyond the program is an investment in shaping the future of STEM—a future where diverse, visionary women lead the way in innovation and success.
Open to ICB Industry Partners by invitation only, attending the National Retail Federation (NRF) Big Show in New York and participating a three-day leadership course at MIT, Boston in January 2025, the IWIST aims to offer an unparalleled return on investment for partners.
Delegates will benefit in several ways as they have the opportunity to:
- Enhance Leadership Skills: Equip high-performing female CIO and CTO STEM champions with advanced management and leadership skills tailored for the tech industry.
- Foster Networking Opportunities: Create a platform for meaningful connections with global industry leaders, providing an immediate ROI through business collaborations and partnerships.
- Accelerate Innovation: Provide exposure to cutting-edge practices at leading U.S. tech companies and research institutions, enabling delegates to bring back actionable insights to drive innovation in their roles.
- Promote Talent Retention: Invest in existing leadership talent, boosting morale and reducing turnover costs.
- Build Brand Equity: Elevate the corporate brand as an industry leader committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, which in turn attracts high-quality talent and customer opportunities.
