Summer is a great time to feel inspired. And what better way to do that than to hear from tech leaders who are transforming the industry. Whether it's leaning in or breaking up the boy’s club, these must-reads by women in tech will help you do the same.
"Women in Tech: Take Your Career to the Next Level with Practical Advice and Inspiring Stories" by Tarah Wheeler Van Vlack
“Women in Tech” is a great read for women looking to begin careers in the tech industry. Tarah Wheeler Van Vlack shares great advice like how to negotiate a better salary and how to prepare for a tech interview. The book also has some great insights from industry leaders and entrepreneurs.
As a bonus, there are hidden features and puzzles, including code you can run, sprinkled throughout the book.
"Brotopia: Breaking Up the Boys' Club of Silicon Valley” by Emily Chang
Author Emily Chang dives deep into the “bro culture” of tech. She traces its history and the psychology behind the phenomenon. Readers say it’s a compelling read, especially for women in tech or looking to join the industry, with plenty of actionable insights on how to change the culture to a more inclusive one.
"Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead" by Sheryl Sandberg
Sheryl Sandberg’s book helped create a whole movement. The Chief Operating Officer of Facebook talks about her own journey while providing great advice that can help transform your own career.
"You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life" by Jen Sincero
It’s easy to think you’re “not good enough” or that you have to apologize before offering your opinion. Jen Sincero wants you to stop doing that and embrace your awesomeness. You have the skills, smarts, experience, and passion to succeed.
"The Glass Universe: How the Ladies of the Harvard Observatory Took Measure of the Star" by Dava Sobel
Some of astronomy’s greatest discoveries were the result of the hard work of women deemed merely to be “computers.” Dava Sobel details the compelling and undertold story of the incredible women at the Harvard Observatory. It’s an inspiring look at how women have, and will continue to, shape teach and the world.
"Life in Code: A Personal History of Technology” by Ellen Ullman
Author and software engineer Ellen Ullman discusses her personal journey alongside the recent history of tech. It’s a great read as a memoir and as an examination on how tech has changed the world around us. Ullman’s “Close to the Machine” is also highly recommended.
"Technically Wrong: Sexist Apps, Biased Algorithms, and Other Threats of Toxic Tech” by Sara Wachter-Boettcher
Can an app be biased? What about an algorithm? It turns out that the answer is “yes.” Whether it’s through an oversight, lack of experience, or a lack of diverse voices in the creation process. Author Sara Wachter-Boettcher focuses on these biases and helps us to create a more inclusive digital world.
