How Capital One creates space for Women in Tech

Lissa, a senior director in software engineering, loves to collaborate and work on a team. That’s why she’s participated in Women in Tech (WIT), Capital One’s Business Resource Group (BRG) for women technologists. 

“Through WIT, I can create that network of people who can be advocates and sponsors and supporters of all women in tech,” Lissa said. “That network has motivated me to do more, participate and give back.”

By creating a space where women technologists can connect, thrive and learn, WIT is able to advocate for women and inspire future generations.

Growing women technologists’ careers

WIT supports associates at every stage of their career. Members benefit from local and national chapters, as well as focus groups on topics within tech. When Sharnise, a project manager, moved lines of businesses from Card to Tech, she joined WIT to learn more about the innovative tech work happening at Capital One.

“WIT helped me get up to speed,” Sharnise said. “They give you that opportunity to find the right people and do what you really love.”

Many associates are introduced to WIT’s work through Women in Tech Experience (WITx), a three-day conference where associates develop career skills, network and hear from Capital One leaders and tech visionaries like Reshma Saujani, founder and CEO of Girls Who Code.

“It’s such an amazing showcase of genuine and vulnerable leadership,” Lissa said. “The speakers aren’t afraid to be open and really connect.”

Large events such as WITx are fantastic opportunities to network and get a larger sense of WIT’s work as a whole. Throughout the year, WIT also offers smaller events to encourage more personal connections.

As the WIT remote chapter lead, Lissa hosted a three-day event focused on intentional inclusion earlier this year. Attendees left with a framework for how each of them could apply the topic to their career at Capital One and beyond.

WIT collaborates with other tech BRGs to offer intersectional career development programs. Members can take advantage of educational opportunities to grow their skills and gain certifications on their resume. Additionally, WIT sponsors the Rise Up mentorship program, a six-month group experience that provides career guidance to associates to support their career growth and success.

Shaping the future of women in tech

WIT’s impact extends beyond Capital One into the wider community. Throughout the year, WIT members volunteer with schools and coding programs focused on encouraging women in STEM.

At last year’s WITx, Sharnise was able to follow her passion for volunteerism and lead an exercise where attendees wrote letters to middle school students in STEM programs.

“When I speak with these kids, they talk about just how appreciative they were to get advice. Building up that next generation of women in tech is what it’s all about,” Sharnise said.

While keeping an eye on the future, WIT is empowering women to take leaps in their career and have confidence in their role as technologists.

“If I have a legacy that I leave behind at Capital One, it's that I’ve created a culture of inclusion and belonging within the tech space,” Lissa said. “WIT has been key to helping me achieve that goal.”