“You Figure It Out By Yourself”: Women's Transitions from Computer Science Education to the Workforce

Abstract

Despite ongoing efforts to broaden participation, women remain underrepresented in Computer Science (CS) education and the workforce. This study examines how institutional support shapes women's transitions from CS education to professional practice. We conducted a thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with current and former CS students and professionals, informed by frameworks on gender bias, identity development, and organizational culture. Findings show that persistence in CS is shaped less by individual ability than by uneven, often implicit institutional support, which becomes especially consequential during the education-to-workforce transition. These results identify intervention points beyond recruitment-focused approaches to improve long-term retention.