Video chat: Why are women leaving tech?

In 2008, hostile work environments were driving women from the tech industry at a startlingly high rate, a study by the Center for Talent Innovation found. Has it gotten any better? Not really, according to a follow-up report in 2014.

We wrote about the trend recently, which prompted many of our readers -- women and men -- to share their personal experiences.

This week, we are continuing the conversation. Join The Times on Thursday at 3:30 p.m. PST for a live video discussion about problems women face in the tech industry, and possible strategies for attracting and retaining a more diverse workforce.

Live discussion on Thursday at 3:30 p.m. PST

Ana Redmond, a software engineer who left the tech industry to make educational games and teach at the University of Washington, is to be on hand to discuss the challenges she faced and why she quit.

Also, Joan C. Williams, a law professor at UC Hastings, whose research area focuses on workplace equality, is set to join the conversation.

Our discussion will delve into some of the issues raised in our article, “Why are women leaving the tech industry in droves?” -- including unconscious biases that make women feel undervalued and unwelcome, and the isolation many women feel working in the technology industry.

We will also discuss the role men play in finding solutions to the problems, and initiatives companies can try right now in an effort to create an even playing field.

You can participate in the discussion by commenting here or by tweeting during the live Google+ Hangout on Air using the hashtag #askLATimes.

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