Presented by national nonprofit ChickTech, ACT-W (Advancing the Careers of Technical Women) programs are tech-centric events, memberships, and conferences where talented women, non-binary folks, and allies can build skills, grow their community, and accelerate their career paths.
100% of the proceeds from ACT-W help ChickTech build a more diverse and inclusive tech culture and workforce by expanding the pipeline of underrepresented individuals pursuing tech and increasing retention throughout careers through free youth programs and a lifelong adult community of support and empowerment.
ACT-W Conferences are packed with engaging programming and attendees participate in groundbreaking sessions, training workshops, networking opportunities, career and community fair and happy hours designed to build leadership, career advancement, and technical skills.
From technical skills workshops to leadership talks and networking events, ACT-W has you covered. The majority of our online events are free, and all are open to people of any genders and background. Join us to learn new skills and make connections!
Our online membership community is tailored toward individuals in all stages of their professional careers. Whether you’re just starting out in tech or you’re a tech veteran, an ACT-W Membership has something to offer! Join with us to connect with our community of professionals of all genders advancing their careers in tech.
Memberships are currently closed as we upgrade our systems. Sign up for our email newsletter to get an announcement when membership registration opens.
No matter who you are, you belong. As ChickTech and ACT-W work to create a movement that includes all people, DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) is extremely important.
Whether you’re a technologist, marketer, diversity advocate, HR specialist, or a project manager, technology needs you to help lead the charge! The ACT-W community consists of talented professionals and advocates from a wide range of backgrounds, skillsets, and experience levels.
We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for our staff, volunteers, and program participants. Our Code of Conduct helps us ensure that ACT-W events and programs are safe and positive, and outlines our expectations for all those who participate in our community.
Don’t just take it from us—ACT-W conferences, events, and memberships really do change lives! Here’s what our community members have to say about our programs and organization:
Your employees want to stay connected to supportive peers, hone their skills, and make the tech a stronger industry. The research shows that professional development is increasingly becoming a leading factor in employee satisfaction and productivity. A 2020 study by UiPath found that 68% of US workers feel “somewhat” to “strongly” intimidated when they need to learn a new technology skill.
But we know that supportive, intentional training helps lessen employee anxiety about learning new digital skills. In 2021, 55% of surveyed ACT-W Conference attendees said that their interest interest in learning new tech skills in order to advance at work increased due to the event.
We built ACT-W with both professionals and employers in mind. Learn about the ways you can partner with us to showcase your company’s commitment to diversity and tech, find talented job seekers, and grow your employees’ skills & satisfaction.
ACT-W volunteers work alongside ChickTech staff to plan and host events for women, non-binary people, and allies in tech. We invite people of all genders to volunteer with us.
“ChickTech has opened up doors for me on so many levels. I have met the most amazing people, worked with incredible organizations, and have been able to collaborate with the most influential members in the technology industry.”
— Dave, ChickTech Volunteer