Women in automation: Pioneers in a transforming industry

Introduction

Automation and AI are rapidly transforming industries, shaping the way businesses operate. Among the most exciting advancements is agentic automation – systems capable of autonomous decision-making and adaptive learning. Women make up just 22% of the automation industry, according to the UiPath State of the Automation Professional 2024. 

Women’s participation in the evolution of automation is not just about representation, it is crucial for creating AI-driven solutions that work for everyone. As highlighted by Forbes, increasing women’s involvement in AI and automation can close financial gaps, foster more ethical and unbiased technologies, and drive economic growth. However, gender disparities persist, limiting opportunities for women in technical and leadership roles. Addressing these challenges requires initiatives that recognize, support, and amplify women’s contributions.  

In December 2024, Forbes reported that by 2025, AI is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy. However, fewer than 22% of AI professionals are women, underscoring a significant gap in the development of technologies that will shape our future. This disparity is particularly concerning the recent studies indicating that women's jobs may be disproportionately affected by AI and automation. 

Trends and challenges for women in automation

According to a study by the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School, 79% of working women are employed in occupations susceptible to AI disruption and automation. This is partly due to the higher concentration of women in white-collar jobs (70%) compared to blue-collar jobs (30%). Industries with high female representation that are expected to be significantly impacted include office administrative support (70% women), healthcare (76%), education (73%), and community and social services (67%). 

Despite these challenges, BairesDev states that there are also opportunities for women in the evolving landscape of automation and AI. The tech industry is actively seeking to attract more women, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and innovative thinking.  In fact, large global technology companies were expected to reach nearly 33% overall female representation in 2022, a 2% increase from 2019. 

UiPath initiatives

To advocate for this mission, UiPath Community presents the Women in Automation series, a dedicated global program launched in 2022 and designed to empower women in this industry through expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking opportunities. By showcasing the journeys of women leaders and diving into the technical aspect of automation, this initiative fosters a more inclusive and dynamic industry.  

The program has been going on yearly and has already reached its 2025 edition, after three successful editions, which were filled with inspiring panel discussions, informative sessions on the latest technologies, and best practices on career growth. For a little throwback, check out previous dedicated articles: 

• Women in automation community 2024 

• Women in automation program 2023 

This year’s edition of the series was kicked off with an engaging conversation on Thriving through disruption: Growth Strategies for Women in AI and Automation. It brought together a panel group full of superwomen, who have held discussions on various topics, such as growth strategies, agentic automation capabilities and opportunities, career development, and the list continues. From this discussion, we want to highlight a few takeaways for success in automation:

1. Continuous learning

• Keep up with new trends and technologies like Generative AI, since 51% of companies already use it. 

“AI isn't going to take anyone's job, but someone who knows how to use AI, will”, as pointed out by Sangita Ray, Co-lead of Women in Automation PUC @ UiPath.  

2. Embrace change

• See disruption as an opportunity to redefine your role and identify ways to add value beyond repetitive tasks.

“Think about the work you do differently...how do you make it better?” says Giao Duong, VP, Corporate Functions IT @ T-Mobile. 

3. Take risks

Molly Mecham, VP, Sales Acceleration @ UiPath advises those who want to improve in the automation field to be willing to "jump in and take some of those risks and try", even if it feels "messy and weird". 

4. Strategic thinking

• Go beyond routine tasks and contribute strategically by upleveling your skills. 

Rashmi Chari, VP, Customer Success @ UiPath warns women against getting stuck with easy tasks like note-taking, which automation tools can now handle. 

5. Networking

• Connect with other professionals, seek mentors, and attend industry events to build relationships and gain valuable insights. 

• Expand your network to include partners and customers. 

Diving deeper

Following the discussion, we wanted to hear more from the panelists and their views on the future trends of the automation industry. We’ve asked Molly Mecham, Executive Sponsor of the Women in Automation PUC @ UiPath, and Sangita Ray, Women in Automation PUC lead @ UiPath, a few questions that continue the conversation with further professional insights. Thank you to these two amazing ladies who took their time to answer them! 

1. Women make up just 22% of the automation industry. What’s one key change you think could help close this gap? 

Molly: Visibility. Promoting each other online AND in real-life – volunteering time to network, to share stories, to ask questions and support one another.  There are amazing women in the industry doing impactful work from product development to sales, customer success, marketing, finance and beyond.  The more we show up for each other and celebrate one another, share journeys and stories - the good and the challenging, ask questions, the more we can inspire and sponsor more women in the industry.  

Sangita: One key change is fostering AI literacy among women at all career stages. AI literacy isn’t just about technical skills—it’s about understanding how AI impacts business strategy, decision-making, and innovation. Programs that combine AI education with mentorship, designed for women can be a great enabler to break down barriers to entry and retention by building both competence and confidence within supportive communities.  

2. Agentic automation is transforming how systems make decisions. What’s the biggest opportunity, or risk, you see for women in this space?  

Molly: The opportunity is massive and agentic automation is still being defined – and scaled for enterprise use. Women can shape the field from the ground up.  The risk is sitting on the sidelines while the industry is being built. Jump in, read everything you can, listen to all the podcasts and join webinars.  Ask questions, fail fast.  

Sangita: A biggest opportunity for women in agentic automation is to lead the charge in designing ethical, unbiased systems, ensuring diverse perspectives shape how automated decisions are made. The risk, however, without women's voices in the room, these systems could perpetuate existing biases and reinforce existing inequalities, leaving women out of critical leadership and innovation roles. Women need to proactively position themselves as thought leaders and decision-makers in this evolving landscape.  

3. AI is expected to add $15.7 trillion to the economy. How can women ensure they’re part of this growth rather than being left behind?

Molly: I'd echo my earlier comments, the industry is being built in real-time – ask questions, work with colleagues and customers to understand the business problems first to ensure you collaborate on a solution that delivers value.  Using or implementing a tool or technology just because it's new or top of mind won't change how we work, strategic understanding of customers and their needs will continue to drive value and build trusted relationships.  

Sangita: Women can ensure they’re part of this growth by actively investing in technical skills and business acumen. Building expertise in both AI technology and its practical applications will position women as invaluable assets to organizations. Also, it will be critical to lean into skills like critical thinking, communication, and cross-functional leadership — the irreplaceable human capabilities AI can’t replicate. Identify your unique strengths and find AI tools that scale your expertise. and act as a force multiplier, whether you’re a strategist, communicator, or problem-solver.  

4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to women looking to advance in automation and AI?  

Molly: Raise your hand before you are ready – the best way to learn is to jump into the conversation.  

Sangita: Own your ambition. Don’t just wait for opportunities—create them. Take calculated risks, speak up about your achievements, and constantly seek ways to expand your skills and network. Leverage various resources like LinkedIn and Industry events not just for learning but also for staying connected with industry trends and networking with professionals worldwide.  

Conclusion

The future of automation and AI is full of opportunities for those eager to learn, adapt, and innovate. As technology advances, new roles and career paths are emerging, making this an exciting time to be part of the industry. Through the Women in Automation series, the UiPath Community provides a space to explore these possibilities, gain insights from experts, and connect with like-minded professionals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, there’s a place for you in this evolving landscape.  

Join us in learning, sharing, and shaping the future of automation together!