 Recognizing the gender gap in the Information Technology (IT) field, Cisco Learning Institute partnered with Cisco Systems, Inc. in April 2000 and established the Cisco/Cisco Learning Institute Gender Initiative. This project seeks ways to increase females’ access to IT training and career opportunities, beginning with the Cisco Networking Academy™ Program. The Cisco Networking Academy Program presents an excellent opportunity to help narrow the gender gap and increase female participation in the Internet economy.
Cisco and CLI are working with Networking Academies worldwide to collect and disseminate information on best practice recruitment and retention strategies. Based on the research findings, the two organizations are developing tools and resources, such as a gender module, marketing materials, gender websites, and slide presentations, designed to attract and retain more females to the field of IT.
Project Partners
CLI has worked with the Academy for Educational Development (AED), the Institute for Women in Trades, Technology, and Science (IWITTS), the International Youth Foundation (IYF), and the Trust for the Americas/ Organization of American States. These organizations partnered with CLI to conduct research and establish gender activities at targeted Academies worldwide.
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