IBM Launches an Initiative to Help Bridge the Gender Gap for Women+AI

Fewer women are in the leadership pipeline today than in 2019—but generative AI presents a once-in-a-career opportunity to help close the gender gap. IBM Institute for Business Value research (IBV) highlights how women can tap into this transformative technology to deliver strategic business value, ascend to positions of power, and pave the path for those climbing the ladder after them.

Fact: The number of women in the leadership pipeline is shrinking. If women don’t leverage generative AI to gain a competitive edge today, there may be even fewer in the leadership pipeline tomorrow. Women can—and must—be change agents. Early use cases for generative AI are focused on HR, marketing, and customer service—functions historically dominated by women. That means women who understand how these use cases align with strategic goals and deliver meaningful results can propel themselves into the leadership ranks.

Our IBM Institute for Business Value report, “Forging the future of AI: Women Can Take the Lead” released earlier this year shared some surprising, perhaps shocking, data 👇

• Only 12% of C-suite and board-level positions are held by women.

• 68% of women say men are benefitting more from AI.

• 59% of women are waiting for company direction on using AI tools.

• The pipeline of women leaders is shrinking. Only 14% of senior VP, 16% of VP ordirector, and 19% of senior manager positions are held by women—and these figures are lower than they were in 2019.

Those who have a vision for AI and understanding how it aligns with strategic goals will gain an unbeatable edge.

So what is IBM doing to help make an impact in this space? To help guide women with gaining momentum in AI, the Women’s Executive Council is introducing a new events and education program called “Women+AI,” declaring it the #1 priority for Women at IBM.

“If women can lean in by showcasing their innovation and strategic thinking capabilities, they can really take a leadership role.” - Joanne Wright, SVP, Transformation and Operations and Executive Sponsor of the Women’s Executive Council

The Women+AI Program Consists of a Few Areas of Focus

Events & Speaker Series

IBM will host and participate in both internal and external events focused on AI-related topics; from careers in AI to ethics and more.

This Wednesday, September 11th at 11AM EST (8AM PST), The WIT Network's CEO Christine Bongard will lead an insightful discussion on leveraging generative AI to create opportunities and close the gender gap.

Join her, along with IBM’s Joanne Wright, SVP of Transformation and Operations and Executive Sponsor of the Women’s Executive Council, and Dr. Joy Dettorre, Ed.D., Global D&I Leader, for this important conversation. You can register for the free and virtual event here.

AI-xcelerate Learning Celebration

Beginning in October, this month-long sprint will feature multi-level programs designed to help women succeed in AI by up skilling and educating themselves on a wide variety of topics and issues surrounding AI.

Keep a lookout for THINK Roadshow 2025– Women+AI Edition

These local events will offer interactive sessions on AI, expert-led workshops, and networking opportunities. All of the events above will feature career growth and networking opportunities, such as allyship circles, coaching circles, panels and more.

The Women+AI program was created to help forge a path forward for women to succeed within a technological world that will have a larger economic impact than their personal computer and the internet combined. Now is the time to make your move and get involved!

🐝 We can’t wait to meet you at our first event! Learn how to be a change agent and register here for more: https://ibm.biz/BdK55y