The technology industry has long been defined by innovation, but true progress comes when diverse voices are part of the conversation. Today, women are steadily reshaping the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) industries. Female STEM leaders are challenging outdated norms and creating more inclusive workplaces. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), women make up 26.4% of the workforce in mathematics and computer-related jobs. That number is even smaller when it comes to women in specific technology roles, including software developers (20.3%), computer programmers (17.8%), and information security analysts (18.9%). Additionally, across all industries women are underrepresented at every stage of the corporate pipeline, with only 29% in C-suite positions, according to McKinsey & Company report. That disparity spotlights both the progress that has been made, and the work that is still ahead.

Toshiba believes diverse perspectives fuel progress and empowering women in leadership roles is essential to solving the complex challenges of tomorrow. Through programs like Women Empowerment of Toshiba (WEoT) at Toshiba Corporation, and year-round mentorship opportunities, Toshiba is committed to the advancement of women in the technology field and ensuring that inclusion is a cornerstone of our company’s future.

Spotlighting Three Inspiring Leaders at Toshiba Americas

Toshiba’s commitment comes to life through women who are already making their mark across the organization. Andrea Schulze Dias has been with Toshiba for nearly 19 years, steadily rising through the ranks to become Vice President and CIO for Toshiba Americas — a role she has held for the past four years. Today, she leads a diverse team of 74 employees, driving innovation and transformation across the enterprise. However, her climb up the corporate leadership ladder wasn’t without its challenges.

“One of the earliest hurdles was confronting and dismantling the stereotypes that often surround women in leadership,” Andrea said. “I’ve had to consistently prove that my capabilities extend far beyond outdated assumptions, demonstrating strategic vision, technical depth, and resilience in high-stakes environments.”

Andrea notes that these experiences have shaped her into a more empathetic, strategic, and resilient leader. Andrea credits mentorship and building strong networks as pivotal to her growth and is passionate about paying it forward – a key in helping more women rise into leadership roles.

“Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you,” Andrea said. “Seek out mentors and never underestimate the power of community. Leadership isn’t a solo journey – it’s built through connection, courage, and conviction. Trust yourself, lean into your strengths, and know that your voice matters. The path may not always be clear, but your gut will help you find it.”

Naomi Kosugi, VP & GM, Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Division at Toshiba International Corporation (TIC), is helping Toshiba expand its presence in the U.S. energy sector by leading T&D business development, which is a field focused on the equipment and technologies that moves electricity from power plants to homes and businesses. Her role focuses on selling traditional electrical equipment, such as transformers, while also promoting the development of smart grid technologies that enhance the sustainability and resilience of energy infrastructure. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she brings together engineering and operational teams, aligning diverse perspectives into unified strategies that drive financial performance and deliver measurable business value.

“My current role is giving me different opportunities to grow personally and professionally,” Naomi said, “and that is what makes me move forward every day.”

The T&D sector is evolving quickly as the world shifts toward cleaner energy. Renewable sources like wind and solar are growing fast, and the current grid needs upgrades to keep up. At the same time, rising demand for data centers is adding new challenges—making it more important than ever to modernize the U.S. grid. Naomi emphasizes that the T&D Division at TIC is committed to supporting this transformation, with the goal of advancing a more sustainable and prosperous future of society. Her ability to navigate both technical and business landscapes exemplifies the power of diverse perspectives in leadership.

“There’s a Japanese idiom saying ‘笑う門には福来る(warau kado niwa fuku kitaru),’” Naomi stated. “The direct translation is ‘good fortune and happiness come to the home of those who smile.’ This saying expresses the idea that a cheerful and positive attitude invites good luck and happiness. It emphasizes the value placed on maintaining a joyful spirit, even in difficult times, to attract positive outcomes.”

Maria Petrova, Vice President of Tech Development, Software Engineering at EtaPRO®, a Toshiba Group Company, leads the technical heart of EtaPRO’s U.S. software engineering efforts, driving innovation in areas that directly shape the company’s future. EtaPRO® is a performance and condition monitoring software platform that helps optimize the operation of power plants and other industrial assets. Maria and her team drive innovations that keep essential infrastructure running safely and efficiently.

Her role underscores that women’s leadership in technology is not limited to management but extends into deep technical expertise.

“Strive for excellence in everything you do,” Maria said. “Be confident in your skills, and don’t be afraid to take on challenges that feel just beyond your comfort zone – that’s how you learn, grow, and lead.”

Building a Culture of Belonging

In October 2022, Toshiba Corporation launched the first phase of its WEoT30 (Women Empowerment of Toshiba) program, which is a cross-mentoring that connects employees with executives, fosters dialogue, and builds pathways for growth. The first cohort launched in October 2022, graduating 27 participants in March 2024. The second cohort is currently underway. Alongside WEoT, initiatives like the Future 300(high-potential early career professionals) and Next 150, an executive pipeline is helping shape the leaders of tomorrow ensuring women are represented at every level of the company.

“WEoT isn’t just a program—it’s a movement,” Andrea said. “It signals to every woman in the organization that leadership is not only attainable but expected. Through mentorship, we pass on knowledge, build confidence, and open doors that might otherwise remain closed. These initiatives help cultivate a culture where skill meets opportunity, and where women are empowered to rise, lead, and redefine what’s possible.”

These programs go beyond professional development. They spark confidence, strengthen networks, and create environments where women feel empowered to lead.

A Message for the Next Generation

The stories of leaders like Andrea, Maria, and Naomi remind us that leadership in technology isn’t just about technical know-how; it’s about inspiring teams, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities for others to thrive.

“Greater results can be achieved through collective effort rather than working alone,” Naomi said. “While individual effort is valuable, working with a group often leads to more impactful outcomes. Each person brings unique strengths, perspectives, and ideas, and when these are combined, they can lead to innovative solutions and greater efficiency.”

For aspiring women in tech, their journeys highlight the importance of mentorship, visible role models and seizing opportunities to grow. For male allies and managers, the message is equally clear: champion inclusive programs, create space for diverse voices and lead with purpose.

The future of technology will be built by teams that reflect the world around us. And thanks to leaders like Andrea, Maria and Naomi, that future looks more inclusive and dedicated to innovation.