This week, October 12-16, is Women in Tech Week, an opportunity to recognise the contribution of women across the technology industry and help inspire the next generation to see technology as a place where they can belong, contribute and thrive.
During Women in Tech Week, we're also celebrating Ada Lovelace Day on 13th October, a day not only reflecting on the legacy of a pioneering woman in technology, but also showcasing the people across the Met Office who are continuing that legacy every day.
The recently released Lovelace Report from WeAreTechWomen and Oliver Wyman revealed that women are leaving the tech industry at twice the rate of men. This loss of talent is estimated to have a £1.4 billion-2.2 billion loss to the industry every year, leaving only 21% of the tech workforce being made up by women. With only 25% of women believing they can have leading roles in tech, we aim to champion diversity and empower their limitless success.
For the fourth year running, we’re proud that The Met Office has been recognised on the list of the UK’s Best Places to Work in Tech 2026.
By celebrating the women already making an impact across our organisation, we can shine a light on the many different pathways into technology and encourage others to consider where their own passions could take them.
Why Representation Matters
Representation isn’t just about who we see working in technology. It’s about creating an environment where people feel they belong, are supported to grow and can shape the industry in their own way.
While visibility can help challenge perceptions of who belongs in tech, it’s equally important to recognise the individuality, expertise and experiences that women bring to the field.
As Rebecca Rushforth, Senior Software Developer at the Met Office, puts it, representation shouldn’t mean feeling responsible for speaking on behalf of everyone else.
“I don’t feel I have to represent women, because there are plenty of women doing that already. So, I can just be me.”
That freedom to be herself is an important part of what representation can mean.
For Alice Cooper, CSOC Lead Analyst, her experience in cyber security has shown her what support can make possible.
“The Met Office is a place where women can build rewarding careers in technology, and my own journey in cyber security has shown me the opportunities there are to develop, progress and lead. I’ve been encouraged to take on new challenges, grow into a lead role and continue developing, while having the support of people around me. Creating an inclusive workplace isn’t just about encouraging women into technology. It’s about making sure they have the support, confidence and opportunities to make their voices heard, challenge ideas and shape the future of the industry. I’m proud to be part of an organisation where I’ve been able to do exactly that."
It’s about more than opening the door to a career in technology; it’s about ensuring people feel empowered to build a future there.
As Head of Product, Angela Gordon Lennox plays a key role in shaping the Met Office’s digital products, leading the evolution of product management across the organisation and driving innovation. She reflects on the importance of finding support, alongside colleagues who share a commitment to making a difference.
“The Met office is a truly inspiring and rewarding place to work, where purpose and values are at the heart of everything we do. I feel empowered and supported here, surrounded by talented women and allies who are passionate about making a difference through technology. If you’re looking for a place where you can grow, be yourself, and help shape the future, I can’t recommend it highly enough.”
Together, these experiences show that representation is about more than being visible. It’s about being valued for who you are, having the space to grow and knowing your contributions can make a difference.
Gain a deeper insight on more of our early careers stories here, and discover how you can take your first steps into building a lifechanging career in technology.
Building a culture where women can thrive
At the Met Office, the Women’s Network plays an important role in building a culture where women feel valued, supported and recognised. Through initiatives that connect colleagues, celebrate achievements and amplify women’s voices, the network helps create opportunities for people to share experiences, learn from one another and feel part of a wider community.
One example, In Her Element, is the network’s monthly spotlight series, which celebrates the women who shape and support the organisation. From colleagues tackling complex technical challenges to those making a difference behind the scenes, each feature offers a personal insight into their work, motivations and career journeys.
Read more about the Met Office's commitment to being supportive workplace through employee networks here.
Women Shaping Tech Today
Across the Met Office, women are helping deliver some of the organisation's most significant technological transformation programmes.
We were incredibly proud to have five finalists in this year's Women in Tech Awards!
- Nic Bellingham – Best Use of Tech in a Public Sector Project Award
- Imogen Stevens – Project Delivery Lead Award
- Kay Church – Digital Transformation Champion of the Year
- Katie Bennett – Tech Professional (Non-Coding) Award
- Kirstine Dale – AI Champion of the Year
“There has never been a better time to work in Technology. The opportunities to shape our future are vast and increasing. With growing sophistication, AI approaches have the potential to help us tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing society. As a woman in tech, supportive colleagues, a network of other women and allies within and outside the Met Office, and an evident commitment to an inclusive working environment helps ensure we draw on our collective skills and experience to push scientific and technological boundaries.”
Kirstine Dale, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer
Read Kirstine Dale’s exploration on why diverse teams are key to unlocking AI’s full potential here.
These achievements reflect the wealth of talent, expertise and ambition shaping technology at the Met Office. As the opportunities presented by emerging technologies continue to grow, women will continue to play a vital role in driving innovation, challenging convention and helping shape what comes next.
The future starts here
One of the key themes of Women in Tech Week is that careers in technology are shaped by many different journeys. From and apprentices and graduates to experienced professionals, every path is unique.
Hearing from those at the start of their careers is a reminder that big things can begin with a single step, and that today’s emerging talent will help shape the future of STEM.
Whether you're following an established ambition or discovering a new passion, every contribution creates lasting impact.
Rebekka Goddard, Software Developer apprentice, shares how her story highlights the value of taking a chance on trying a new career direction...
“What drew me to the Met Office was the opportunity to completely change career direction whilst still working somewhere with a really meaningful purpose. My background is in marine science, so moving into Software Development felt like a big leap with lots of uncertainty, however, since I've started and met incredible women who have come via so many different routes I feel really confident and reassured in my choice and am so grateful for the opportunity.”
A career in climate science offers Ishbel Scott, Climate Monitoring and Attribution Scientist Industrial Placement, the chance to blend her love of technology with work that has a genuine impact on people and communities.
“My role as a Climate Monitoring and Attribution Scientist Industrial Placement involves analysing climate data, supporting attribution studies, and helping to develop the tools and methods used to understand changes in our climate. I enjoy this because it combines problem solving, coding and scientific research, while contributing to work that has real-world impact. Diverse perspectives strengthen both science and innovation.”
Megan Moreland, Graduate Trainee, reflects on how seeing women in technology helped her imagine her own future in the sector.
“Seeing women in technology roles is the reason I know my career aspirations are possible. When I started university, seeing women in technology roles, like those working at the Met Office, helped me to believe it was ‘for’ me. Every day I have opportunities to build on what I already know and to learn from and work with experts. I’m excited and energised by the opportunity to keep learning every day, and to contribute to keeping people safe with the work we do as an organisation."
Whilst every journey is different, a common thread runs through these stories: the importance of representation, the confidence to embrace new opportunities and the support that helps people thrive once they arrived.
Learn more about early careers at the Met Office here
From placement student to Technology leader
When Katie Bennett first joined the Met Office in 2011 as a summer placement student, she couldn't have known where the journey would lead. Her path to leadership wasn't defined by a single route or a fixed plan. Instead, it was shaped by curiosity, a willingness to embrace new opportunities and a commitment to continuous learning.
Today, she is Head of the Government Digital and Data Profession, leading the strategic development of a community of more than 650 digital, data and technology professionals across the organisation.
Over the course of her career, Katie has worked across a variety of scientific, technical and operational roles, gaining experience in areas including aviation, hazards and space weather. These experiences gave her hands-on insight into the technology, forecasting systems and operational services that help the Met Office deliver its critical work every day.
Since becoming Head of Profession in 2025, her breadth of experience has played a key role in strengthening the Government Digital and Data Profession, helping create clearer career pathways, stronger professional communities and greater opportunities for people to develop their skills and confidence.
As a senior woman in technology leadership, Katie is passionate about creating an environment where people feel supported to grow, learn and thrive. Through her visible and authentic leadership, she is helping demonstrate what is possible for the next generation entering the profession.
The stories shared throughout this blog are a reminder that there’s no single way to build a career in technology, and no limit to what people can achieve when they’re given the opportunity to explore their potential.
This Women in Tech Week, we’re proud to celebrate the women making a difference across the Met Office, and excited to see what they, and the next generation of talent, go on to achieve.
Here’s to our Women in Tech!
