March 24, 2010 –: when we honour Ada Lovelace, the ‘enchantress of numbers’ and the world’s first programmer.
This year’s Ada Lovelace day (ALD10) – when bloggers celebrate women in technology and science — falls in the week when Ireland’s national broadcaster began looking for the “greatest Irish person ever” . . . with not one scientist on the shortlist, and only three women among the 40 candidates.
So, for my small contribution to ALD10, I want to remember all the women in Irish science and technology, and especially my colleagues and friends in the WITS network which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
WITS has, over the past two decades done tremendous work for women in Irish technology and science. It was instrumental in getting Science Foundation Ireland to establish
- career advancement grants for people returning to research after a career break
- grants for institutions to review women’s participation in science, and
- scholarships to encourage young women into engineering
WITS has also run training and mentoring programmes for women returning to work, compiled a ‘talent bank’ of women for nomination to State boards and authorities, published numerous policy documents, established a successful careers programme for schoolgirls, published two books on the lives and legacies of Irish women scientists (RTE please note!), hosted numerous public events, as well as helping members with their professional and personal development.
Not to mention the wonderful support and friendship down the years.
So, to all the women in Irish technology and science, I say a big ‘Thank You’ for all you have done. Long may you continue.
[...] From Mary Mulvihill: [...]