Women in Tech & Cyber: Routes In, Routes Up

​Event Description
Join us for a powerful, uplifting, and practical session spotlighting the women leading, building, securing, and transforming technology across Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley. Hosted by OxCyber as part of OxTech Week, this event brings together diverse women from across cyber, AI, engineering, product, data, and leadership to share real stories, honest experiences, and actionable insights for the next generation.

​Whether you’re exploring your first step into the industry, growing your career, returning to tech, or already leading teams, this session is designed to connect you with a supportive network and real-world guidance.

​Expect an atmosphere that’s warm, open, and purposeful — with space for meaningful conversations, skill‑sharing, and community building.

​Who This Event Is For

​This event welcomes:

• ​Women working in cybersecurity, AI, data, cloud, software, engineering, product, research, or adjacent roles

• ​Students, career‑changers, returners, early‑career talent

• ​Leaders, hiring managers, founders, and ecosystem supporters

• ​Allies (all genders) who want to actively support women in tech

​What You’ll Experience

​✨ Lightning Keynote: “My not‑so‑straight line into cyber”

​A short, honest keynote from an inspiring woman in tech, sharing the story behind the job title — the pivots, setbacks, breakthroughs, and practical lessons gained along the way.

​🎤 Panel: “Routes In & Routes Up”

​Hear from women representing different career paths across cyber and tech. Expect practical advice, candid reflections, and lively Q&A covering:

• ​Breaking into the industry

• ​Progression and visibility

• ​Imposter syndrome

• ​Switching tracks (tech ↔ non‑tech)

• ​Leadership, advocacy & building confidence

​💬 Micro‑Breakouts: Topic Corners

​Join small, focused discussions led by speakers and community hosts:

• ​Breaking into tech & cyber

• ​Stepping into leadership

• ​Starting something (founders & side‑projects)

• ​Being an effective ally

​🤝 Purposeful Networking

​End the session with guided networking to help you make real, valuable connections — whether you’re hiring, looking, learning, or exploring.

​Why Attend?

• ​Meet and connect with inspiring women across the region

• ​Learn practical steps for career progression

• ​Build relationships that support your next move

• ​Discover opportunities across the OxTech & OxCyber communities

• ​Contribute to a more inclusive, thriving tech ecosystem

​Hosted By

​OxCyber – the Thames Valley’s cyber community, bringing together security professionals, technologists, innovators, founders, researchers, students, and allies to learn, share, and collaborate year‑round.

​Part of OxTech Week 2026, celebrating innovation, community, and collaboration across Oxfordshire.