3C: Competition, Competence, and Collaboration for Women in Computing

2026-05-13

AI Summary

Women in computing have long encountered structural and cultural barriers that hinder their professional advancement, collaborative opportunities, and sense of belonging. This study innovatively proposes a “3C” analytical framework—Competition, Competence, and Collaboration—to systematically examine women’s experiences and strategies in network building, integrating these dimensions for the first time. Employing qualitative methods including focus groups, participatory data collection, and community-driven discussions, the research uncovers key mechanisms influencing women’s participation and advocates for community engagement as a catalyst for systemic change. The findings contribute to strengthening mentorship relationships, solidarity networks, and collaborative ecosystems for women in computing, thereby enhancing their sense of belonging and access to developmental support.

Abstract

Women in computer science and software engineering continue to face structural and cultural barriers affecting recognition, collaboration, and career progression. Existing environments often reinforce competition, tokenism, and exclusion, particularly in male dominated academic and professional spaces. This extended abstract introduces the 3C framework Competition, Competence, and Collaboration to explore how women experience and navigate networking in computing environments. We discuss how perceptions of competence, access to collaborative networks, and competition for limited opportunities shape womens' participation and sense of belonging. As a call to action, we propose community driven discussions, focus groups, and participatory data collection within the ACM womENcourage community to better understand and address these challenges. Our goal is to foster stronger networks of mentorship, solidarity, and collaboration among women in computing.

Problem

• gender barriers
• computing
• collaboration
• career progression
• belonging

Innovation

• 3C framework
• participatory data collection
• women in computing
• collaborative networks
• competence perception