When I Grow Up: A Glimpse into the Career Aspirations of Gen Z and Gen Alpha

Unlock the Future of Work with InnovateHer’s Latest Report

At InnovateHer, we’re on a mission to close the gender gap, starting with the tech industry. In our first-ever trend report, we’ve dived into the career aspirations of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, exploring how we can shape a more inclusive, innovative future for young people in tech, and we’re so excited to share it with you.

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Our 2024 Trend Report asks Gen Z and Alpha what matters to them, as they navigate their education and career choices. We set out to understand how their passions, interests, and motivations are shaping their future paths – particularly in STEM and tech.


We talk about the gender disparities and stereotypes that still hold girls+ and non-binary students back from pursuing careers in technology, despite a growing interest in tech, gaming, and digital creativity and uncover the importance of positive role models and real-world tech exposure for young women and non-binary students.

%

of girls are interested in technology but unsure or uninterested in a tech career.

%

of girls surveyed are fascinated by tech, animation, and gaming – but there’s a disconnect when translating this into career aspirations.

%

of all surveyed find working from home to be important, or really important

📊 In-Depth Data: Breakdown of career aspirations, barriers, and opportunities for girls, boys, and non-binary students aged 11 to 17 across the UK.

🗣️ Student Voices: First-hand accounts from young people sharing their ambitions, concerns, and what they need from schools and businesses.

💡 Expert Analysis: The full data sample of 1069 was analysed with commentary by Ruth Chanarin, an InnovateHer Ambassador and Data Scientist from the Co-op, giving non-biased, expert analysis.

This study was conducted as an online survey between February and July 2024.  The study targeted 1069 students aged 11 to 17 who currently attend school in the United Kingdom.

The survey was conducted anonymously, ensuring the privacy of all participants. The anonymity also allowed for honest, full and candid responses.

Developed by InnovateHer’s research team, it provides actionable insights for educators, employers, and policymakers who are committed to bridging the gender gap in tech.

  • Tech & STEM Professionals: Understand the future talent pipeline and the role diversity plays in innovation.
  • Educators: Gain insights into the career aspirations of your students and how to better support them.
  • Businesses: Learn how to future-proof your workforce by addressing gender disparities in tech.
  • Parents: Explore how societal pressures and stereotypes are shaping the career choices of young people.

At InnovateHer, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation of girls+ and non-binary students to realise their full potential in tech. Through our educational programmes, partner networks, and advocacy work, we are reshaping the future of the workplace – making it fairer, more inclusive, and more diverse.

Creating a world where there is no gender gap, starting with the tech industry.

Why It Matters

The importance of understanding the next generation’s thoughts and career aspirations is paramount to how we can better prepare young people for the workplace alongside helping companies advance the workplace itself. We are at risk of wasting talent if young people start ruling out career options based on their gender, ethnicity or class.

From the classroom to the boardroom, we’re working to make sure every young woman’s voice is heard. Breaking the mould of outdated gender roles allows everyone to benefit from a more diverse, innovative workforce – and that’s exactly what the future of work needs.

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