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TechFirst Women’s Programme Launches

15 October 20262 min read
News
Female software developer working at a multi-monitor desk displaying code

On 13th October, Plexal launched the TechFirst Women’s Programme. A UK wide government-funded initiative helping more women access, secure and thrive in careers across six high-growth technology sectors, including AI, cyber security, engineering biology, quantum technologies, semiconductors and advanced communications. It’s part of the government’s broader TechFirst campaign – a £187m investment in national skills.

The programme aims to support 300 women into paid employment opportunities while helping employers access the diverse talent they need to grow. It’s designed for women at different career stages, including those transitioning from other industries, returning after a career break, looking to progress within technology or exploring the sector for the first time.

By recognising the value of transferable skills and experience, the programme helps participants identify routes into technology careers while accessing skills development, mentoring, career support and employer connections. The focus is on real employment outcomes and long-term career progression.

For employers, the programme offers access to skilled candidates, support with recruitment and candidate matching and opportunities to engage with talent that may not come through traditional hiring routes.

Ultimately, TechFirst Women’s Programme is about unlocking opportunity for women, helping businesses address skills shortages and strengthening the UK’s future technology workforce, enabling the UK to accelerate adoption of strategic technologies.

Supporting numbers

  • TechFirst Women’s Programme is part of the wider TechFirst campaign – a £187m investment in national skills.

  • 300 paid employment opportunities

  • 80% of participants to be mid-career and 20% at an early stage

  • At least six months of work

  • At least 25 hours of work a week

  • 80% of vacancies to come from SMEs and 20% from larger employers

  • In 2024, women accounted for only 21% of the tech workforce, compared with approximately 51% of the overall UK workforce –

    Untapped Digital Talent report

  • 35% of organisations struggled to fill AI roles and 28% of organisations said skills gaps affected their ability to achieve their business goals – AI Labour Market survey

  • Over half (57%) of businesses had a basic technical skills gap, an increase from last year (49%) –

    Cyber Security Skills in UK Labour Market report