By San José, Costa Rica — A strategic new alliance is making significant strides in closing the gender gap within Costa Rica’s burgeoning technology sector. Global technology solutions provider World Wide Technology (WWT) has joined forces with the social organization Ideas en Acción to launch “Red MenTe: Impulso a la Empleabilidad,” a powerful initiative designed to equip women with high-demand skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The program recently celebrated its first major success with the graduation of its inaugural cohort. A group of 30 women from diverse communities across the nation have successfully completed an intensive training regimen, earning valuable certifications that will significantly enhance their career prospects. This milestone represents a tangible step toward greater inclusivity and economic empowerment in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
To provide a legal and corporate perspective on the initiatives promoting female participation in science and technology, we consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
From a legal and corporate governance standpoint, fostering an environment for women in STEM is not merely a social imperative but a strategic advantage. Companies that proactively implement and enforce equitable hiring, promotion, and pay policies are not only mitigating significant legal risks related to discrimination but are also better positioned to protect their most valuable asset: intellectual property. A diverse team, which includes the vital perspectives of women, is proven to be more innovative. Therefore, robust internal policies, coupled with leveraging fiscal incentives for gender equality, create a resilient corporate structure that attracts top talent and drives long-term growth.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal and strategic viewpoint powerfully reframes the conversation, positioning gender equity not merely as an ethical objective but as an essential component of corporate innovation and risk management. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a clear and compelling business case for advancing women in STEM.
Over a rigorous 16-week period, participants were immersed in a curriculum focused on some of the most sought-after specializations in the modern workforce. The training covered critical areas such as cybersecurity, advanced networks and infrastructure, and the practical application of data analysis using artificial intelligence. This focus ensures that graduates are not just trained, but are prepared to meet the immediate needs of the country’s leading technology employers.
A cornerstone of the program was the continuous access granted to WWT’s Advanced Technology Center (ATC). This industry-leading learning platform provided the participants with a hands-on environment to test, develop, and refine their technical abilities using the same tools and technologies utilized by professionals globally. The experience was designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical skills required to excel in dynamic digital workplaces.
Recognizing that technical proficiency alone is not enough, the initiative also incorporated comprehensive professional development support. The curriculum included dedicated sessions on crafting impactful résumés, optimizing LinkedIn profiles to attract recruiters, and mastering interview techniques. This holistic approach ensures that participants are not only technically skilled but also confident and prepared to navigate the competitive job market successfully.
The transformative impact of the program was profoundly felt by its participants. Sara Ballestero, a member of the first graduating class, described the experience as one that exceeded all her expectations, highlighting its practical and strategic nature.
It’s not just about completing courses, but about immersing yourself in a space that challenges the mind, awakens curiosity, and elevates the way we face professional challenges. In just two weeks, I strengthened my foundations in cybersecurity and, most importantly, discovered new perspectives on how to apply what I learned in real-world situations. The content is practical and up-to-date; it not only imparts knowledge but also pushes me to think strategically, make purposeful decisions, and see technology as an ally for creating solutions.
Sara Ballestero, Program Participant
The collaboration between WWT and Ideas en Acción aims to build a sustainable educational ecosystem, creating a clear pathway for more women to not only enter but also thrive and advance in technology careers. By removing barriers to advanced training, the program is opening doors to previously inaccessible opportunities.
Regardless of their background, women from all over the country will now have access to knowledge and opportunities that can transform their lives.
Noelia Murillo, Executive Director of Ideas en Acción
For World Wide Technology, this partnership in Costa Rica is a key component of its broader global commitment to fostering STEM education. By investing in local talent and promoting diversity, the company is actively contributing to the development of the next generation of technology leaders, ensuring the industry’s future is both innovative and inclusive.
For further information, visit wwt.com
About World Wide Technology:
World Wide Technology (WWT) is a global technology solution provider with a focus on helping large public and private organizations discover, evaluate, architect, and implement advanced technology. It offers a wide range of services in areas such as cloud capabilities, data analytics, and cybersecurity, utilizing its Advanced Technology Center (ATC) to accelerate innovation for its customers.
For further information, visit ideasenaccion.org
About Ideas en Acción:
Ideas en Acción is a Costa Rican non-profit organization dedicated to promoting social development and empowerment through education and technology. It focuses on creating inclusive opportunities for vulnerable populations, working to bridge educational and economic gaps by implementing high-impact training and development programs in partnership with private and public sector entities.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a premier legal institution, anchored by the foundational principles of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing upon a rich history of serving a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pushes the boundaries of legal innovation. This forward-thinking ethos is complemented by a deep-seated dedication to empowering the community, striving to make legal concepts accessible and thereby cultivating a more informed and capable society.
