Women in Technology launches Men as Allies Network (WiTMAAN) to drive gender equity in STEM

Women in Technology (WiT) today launched the WiT Men as Allies Network (WiTMAAN), a strategic initiative designed to engage men as active partners in advancing gender equity across the technology sector.

WiTMAAN represents an important evolution in WiT's long-standing mission to create equitable and inclusive workplaces, recognising that lasting gender equity requires shared responsibility and active participation from across the industry.

The launch theme, Better Allies… Better Workplaces, highlights the important role male leaders, colleagues, mentors and champions already play in creating inclusive environments.

WiT Chair Iyari Cevallos said WiTMAAN reflects a growing global movement towards allyship and collaborative leadership in advancing gender equity.

"Engaging men as allies is not about them speaking for women but rather about ensuring they use their influence to advocate for meaningful, systemic change," said Ms Cevallos.

"WiTMAAN recognises that sustainable progress happens when everyone is involved, and this Network provides a practical platform for men to step forward as partners in creating inclusive workplaces across the technology sector.

"We are incredibly proud of the strength and solidarity of our all-female community. This initiative does not replace or diminish that. WiTMAAN will provide practical, evidence-based guidance for men looking to support gender equity, including advocating for women in career opportunities, addressing bias, supporting inclusive team cultures and championing positive workplace behaviours."

WiTMAAN aligns with global allyship movements and research showing that engaging men as allies strengthens workplace culture, improves retention of women in STEM and accelerates progress towards gender equity.¹

WiTMAAN brings together male and female leaders who champion meaningful allyship in workplaces, communities and industry. It aims to recognise existing advocates while encouraging more men to actively participate in building inclusive cultures where women can thrive and succeed in STEM careers. The Network is focused on increasing understanding, encouraging action and creating environments where men can contribute to gender equity in practical ways.

Darren Cavanagh, WITMAAN committee member and Queensland Rail Group Executive Digital & Information, said being involved in the Network reflects a personal commitment to driving change.

"WITMAAN provides an opportunity to actively contribute and make a difference for women in the technology sector.

"As leaders, we have a responsibility to help shape workplace cultures where everyone can succeed.

"Being part of WiTMAAN is about recognising that we all have a role to play in creating more inclusive workplaces.

"For me, allyship is about listening, learning and taking action - whether that's ensuring women are considered and supported in key opportunities, challenging bias or simply being more aware of how we show up as leaders."

Over the coming year, WiTMAAN will deliver a range of initiatives including:

•    Ambassador Program
A leadership pathway equipping men with tools, training and support to champion gender equity within their organisations and networks.

•    Career Advocacy Pathways
Workshops and resources supporting men to sponsor, mentor and advocate for women in technology, helping bridge the gap between intent and action.

•    Male Sentiment Focus Groups
A statewide listening initiative exploring men's perceptions, barriers and motivations around allyship to ensure future programs are grounded in real-world insights.

As part of the launch, WiTMAAN will spotlight allies and share their personal motivations for supporting women in technology and their commitment to building inclusive workplaces.

What action can I take today?
•    Advocate for women in promotions, panels and opportunities 
•    Address bias and exclusionary behaviours 
•    Actively listening to and learning from women 
•    Sponsor women into career‑advancing networks 
•    Challenge outdated workplace norms 
•    Encourage healthy, inclusive team cultures

The Network is open to men at all stages of their allyship journey, reinforcing that participation is about learning, listening and taking intentional action.

Women in Technology invites industry leaders, organisations and individuals to support and participate in WiTMAAN.

Go to www.wit.org.au for more information and to get involved.

About Women in Technology (WiT)
Women in Technology (WiT) is one of Australia's most respected and active technology industry associations. For nearly 30 years, WiT has been unlocking the potential of women across all fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through advocacy, networking, professional development, mentoring and collaboration opportunities in a supportive and inclusive environment.

WiT inspires and supports women to achieve their career aspirations, empowering its growing community to harness their talent, diverse perspectives, and capacity in Australia's emerging digital economy and thriving STEM sectors. With 12,500 members and affiliates, and a network of more than 73,000 supporters, WiT is one of the largest communities of its kind in Australia.

For more information, visit: www.wit.org.au

¹ Research sources include:
•    Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) - Gender equality and workplace performance insights 
•    McKinsey & Company - Women in the Workplace reports 
•    Male Champions of Change - Achieving Gender Equality research 
•    Deloitte - Diversity and Inclusion research 
•    UN Women - HeForShe and global gender equality initiatives