Women in Tech: A Conversation at the Crossroads

What Is the State of Women in Tech?

In a word: shaky.

This is not just a headline—it's a reality that WIRED has been exploring in depth through its upcoming special issue dedicated to gender and power. The upcoming Uncanny Valley podcast live recording on October 8th in San Francisco will take this conversation further, offering a nuanced look at the challenges women face in Silicon Valley.

The event is part of WIRED's commitment to examining the intersection of technology, culture, and influence. With Paulina Borsook, a tech journalist and former WIRED writer, joining global editorial director Katie Drummond for a deep dive into how the landscape has shifted—both for women and for the industry as a whole.

"The tech world's narrative has often overlooked or minimized the role of women," says Borsook. "But there is power in storytelling—especially when that story is rooted in lived experience."

A History of Skepticism and Vision

Borsook's work, including her prescient 2000 book Cyberselfish, which is being re-released this fall, offers a critical lens through which to understand today's tech environment. Her early skepticism of the industry's culture was not just ahead of its time—it was a warning sign that many ignored.

As Silicon Valley has grown, so too has the influence of those who shape it. But when women are underrepresented in leadership roles, and their voices often marginalize in boardrooms and policy discussions, the system becomes less inclusive and less effective.

For Borsook, the current state of tech is both a challenge and an opportunity. She sees the potential for a new narrative—one that centers inclusion, equity, and transparency.

The Role of Media in Shaping Narrative

WIRED's editorial mission has always been about clarity in complexity, especially when it comes to technology and policy. This event is no exception. As media organizations like WIRED continue to shape how the public perceives tech, they also bear responsibility for ensuring that diverse voices are heard.

The Uncanny Valley podcast panel, featuring executive editor Brian Barrett, contributing editor Zoë Schiffer, and senior correspondent Lauren Goode, will explore one of the most pressing questions: Who is the most powerful woman in Silicon Valley?

This question isn't just about power—it's about visibility. Too often, women who are changing the industry are overlooked or reduced to their gender rather than recognized for their achievements.

Power and Influence in the Digital Age

The concept of influence has evolved dramatically with digital tools and platforms. Yet, despite these changes, the tech world remains male-dominated. Women are underrepresented in boardrooms, startup leadership, and policy-making roles that shape our digital future.

This event seeks to correct that imbalance by creating space for honest discussion about how power is constructed, maintained, and challenged within tech culture.

By bringing together voices like Borsook, Drummond, Goode, Barrett, and Schiffer, we're not just discussing the current state of women in tech—we're actively participating in reshaping it.

San Francisco: A Stage for Change

The event will take place at The Commons at KQED in San Francisco, a venue that symbolizes the city's role as a hub of innovation and creativity. With its diverse community and rich history of tech disruption, San Francisco is the perfect setting for this conversation.

General Admission tickets are available for $15 for WIRED readers, with an additional discount for subscribers. Those unable to attend can still stay connected through WIRED's email list—where updates on future events will be posted.

"We want to give people a voice in shaping the tech narrative," says WIRED's editorial team. "This event is just one step toward that goal."

Looking Forward: A More Inclusive Future

As we move forward, it's clear that the conversation about women in tech isn't just a topic for a single evening—it's an ongoing dialogue that demands action and accountability.

This event is not just a reflection of the current state of affairs; it's a call to arms. We're asking readers to join us as we continue to challenge the status quo, celebrate real progress, and hold leaders accountable.

WIRED's upcoming issue and this live event represent a step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem—one that reflects the diversity of its users and creators.

We encourage everyone to attend, share their thoughts, and keep the conversation going. Because when it comes to power, influence, and technology, we all have something to say.