Women in Tech and Digital Leadership
To mark International Women in Tech & Engineering Day 2025, we’re spotlighting three voices from the Cosmic team, Julie, Emma, and Lindsay, who share their deeply personal journeys into digital careers. This blog celebrates the impact women are making in tech and why digital inclusion still matters more than ever.
Julie Hawker – Championing Digital Inclusion
Today, on International Women in Engineering and Technology Day, I’m taking a moment to reflect and to act. My journey into the world of digital skills and services wasn’t born from a fascination with technology alone. Instead, it was driven by a clear mission: to ensure everyone, regardless of background, can fully participate in the digital age.
Over three decades ago, I became increasingly aware of the widening digital divide. Unfortunately, in 2025, that divide persists. Shockingly, around 9 million people in the UK are still offline, and over 20 million workers, more than half the workforce, lack essential digital skills. This ongoing gap doesn’t just limit individual potential; it also stifles communities and economic growth.
When I stepped into my role at Cosmic, I didn’t view myself as a tech expert. My background was in public services and business administration. However, I brought something even more powerful, a hunger to learn and a commitment to lead change. I embraced digital technologies with open arms, and continue to do so. The pace of innovation drives my curiosity and fuels my motivation.
It’s no secret that entering tech can be intimidating, particularly for women. Stereotypes and the absence of visible female leaders can be daunting. That’s exactly why I encourage women to step forward boldly. Be confident in your unique strengths. While digital tools can be taught, your creativity, critical thinking, and empathy are your superpowers. Businesses today are searching for strategic thinkers and change-makers, qualities that many women naturally bring.
If you’re beginning a new chapter or considering a shift into digital, here’s what I’ve learned: pursue what excites you, and seek out organisations that invest in their people. With the right support and a strong learning environment, like the one we’ve created at Cosmic, you can thrive. Skills can grow, but confidence flourishes when you’re in the right culture.
Looking back, I’m proud of many things. But the one constant source of pride is our team. Their passion, creativity, and integrity shine through in every project and partnership. They are the engine behind our social impact and the reason Cosmic is known for digital transformation for all.
This International Women in Tech & Engineering Day, I celebrate every woman forging ahead, lifting others, and breaking new ground. And I call on all organisations, whether private, public, or educational, to actively remove barriers.
Let’s create digital careers that are inclusive, accessible, and truly empowering. When we do, we don’t just change lives, we change the world.
Emma Moore – Creative Drive, Strategic Growth
Ever since I was young, I’ve been drawn to visual storytelling. Design and photography weren’t just hobbies, they were tools to connect, express, and inspire. That passion led me to an apprenticeship at a digital agency. There, I discovered SEO and web design, which ultimately became the foundation for my evolving role in digital marketing.
Like many women in tech, I’ve faced obstacles. At one point, I hit a career plateau. I wanted more, more challenge, more impact, more purpose. Additionally, I encountered assumptions about my capabilities based on my age or gender. These moments became fuel for my determination, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
After the birth of my son, I returned to work eager but cautious. The demands of home and career are not easy to balance, and it reminded me how crucial workplace flexibility and support are. At Cosmic, I’ve found a space that honours both my role as a mother and a leader.
To other women exploring the tech world: be adventurous. Try things that challenge you. The unexpected often leads to growth. Choose workplaces that support learning and diversity. Once you discover what drives you, let it guide your path. And above all, trust in your potential.
My time at Cosmic has been filled with incredible opportunities, from stepping into senior roles to joining the Board as a Non-Executive Director. I’ve had the privilege of contributing to national programmes like FutureDotNow. Most importantly, I’ve been surrounded by inspiring colleagues who lead with purpose. At Cosmic, we’re not just helping businesses, we’re building community impact.
Lindsay Lucas – Engineering Resilience in Tech Leadership
Growing up, I was fascinated by how things worked. Whether it was taking apart electronics or working on vintage cars with my dad, I loved solving problems. This curiosity led me to pursue engineering at university. I earned a BEng and MSc, yet the professional world wasn’t fully welcoming. One employer told me I’d be a distraction, simply because I was a woman.
Thankfully, times have changed. When one door closed, another opened and I stepped into the world of tech via Eclipse Internet. It was here that I found my stride, learning across departments and building lifelong professional relationships.
One of my greatest challenges came six months into my first CEO role, when the pandemic hit. Navigating uncertainty while supporting a newly remote team pushed me to grow fast. We adapted quickly, restructured thoughtfully, and communicated transparently. It was tough, but it strengthened my leadership.
My message to women in tech? Network relentlessly. Stay curious. The digital world isn’t just for coders, it’s built by creatives, organisers, strategists, and communicators. Find a company that reflects your values and don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back. You belong here.
A standout moment in my career was working on the Skills Pathway Programme with University of West of England. I delivered a guest lecture and mentored rising professionals, many of whom left our sessions more confident and capable. That kind of transformation is why I love what I do.
At Cosmic, we deliver far more than training. We unlock potential, create community impact, and ensure no one is left behind. That’s the true power of inclusive digital transformation and it’s a mission I’m proud to lead.
Who We Are at Cosmic
At Cosmic, we’re more than a digital agency, we’re a social enterprise on a mission to make digital accessible for everyone. Whether it’s through training, consultancy, or hands-on support, we empower individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive in a digital world. From helping small businesses grow online to guiding national programmes in digital leadership, we’re passionate about creating real change. Our approach is inclusive, ethical, and rooted in impact. We’re proud to lead with purpose and even prouder of the people we help along the way.