Its a sad fact that the tech industry is still vastly dominated by men. Currently, only around 25% of all tech jobs are held by women. The number is even smaller for management roles, with only 14% of all CTO positions in tech companies belonging to women. Youd think with all the innovative products, ideas and technologies launched every day, the tech industry would have figured out gender equality. Well, it hasnt.

As technology keeps advancing into every aspect of our lives at a fast pace, this is something that has to change. Besides, with technology being one of the biggest and most future-proof industries out there, women are being left out of promising job opportunities.

It is more important than ever to make women seen and female voices heard. Today we want to present you 7 female CTOs that are leading the way for women in tech and that everyone should follow in 2017 and beyond.

1. Gerri Martin-Flickinger, CTO, Starbucks