Changing the Narrative: The Path to a More Equitable Tech Industry

Creating a truly inclusive tech industry requires more than just conversations—it demands action. Krithika Bhat, CIO of Pure Storage, shares her journey, the challenges women face in technology, and how companies can foster real change. From breaking biases to driving equitable opportunities, she highlights the importance of mentorship, leadership programs, and inclusive workplace cultures. In this exclusive interaction with Dataquest for International Women’s Day 2025, we explore how the industry is evolving and what more needs to be done to ensure lasting progress.

Can you share your journey in the tech industry and what led you to your leadership role at Pure Storage?

I never actually set out to work in IT, but once I took the plunge, there was no looking back. My journey began fresh out of university when I joined Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in India as a programmer analyst. It was an incredible learning experience—starting with an intense training boot camp, followed by hands-on software development and support projects both in India and overseas.

This opportunity came through campus recruitment. I had taken a programming course during my engineering degree, enjoyed it, and figured—why not give this a shot? Within a year, I found myself working on a project in Switzerland, which was a huge step for someone who had never left their home country before. That experience reinforced something I’ve believed ever since—when opportunity knocks, grab it with both hands.

After six years at TCS, I moved to Toronto, Canada, for personal reasons. This transition was a defining period in my career. Waiting for my work papers to be issued meant I had a forced hiatus with no professional network to rely on. So, I pushed myself to become a better networker—something that wasn’t second nature to me at the time. That effort paid off, not just then, but throughout my career.

Once I was able to work, I joined SHL System House Limited, taking on a consultancy role that gave me exposure to different technologies and strengthened my analytical skills. Four years later, I moved to Silicon Valley and joined Oracle’s Applications IT organization. Over the next 26 years, I took on increasing leadership responsibilities, eventually becoming Group Vice President, leading a 650+ member team focused on internal ERP, HCM, and EPM solutions.

Then, three years ago, a new and exciting opportunity came my way—joining Pure Storage. Three months in, I stepped into the role of CIO, leading Pure IT as part of the Digital Transformation Group. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I’m excited for what’s ahead!

What challenges have you faced as a woman in tech, and how did you overcome them?

Like many women in technology, I’ve encountered unconscious biases and the challenge of being underrepresented in leadership roles. The tech industry has historically been male-dominated, and at times, that has meant having to work harder to be heard or recognized. I’ve been in meetings where the speakers “forget” to make eye contact with or address the woman in the room—even when she’s the acknowledged expert. These moments can be frustrating, but they’ve also reinforced the importance of self-advocacy.

Over the years, I’ve learned to navigate these challenges by staying confident in my abilities, actively speaking up, and seeking out allies and mentors who believe in my potential. Surrounding myself with a strong network—both women and men—has been invaluable. Their support and guidance have helped me push past obstacles and continue growing in my career.

While progress is happening, unconscious bias is still a reality. The more we acknowledge it and actively work to change it, the better we can create an industry where women are not just present but truly heard and valued.

How is Pure Storage fostering an inclusive culture that supports and empowers women in technology?

At Pure Storage, fostering an inclusive culture is at the heart of what we do. We are committed to supporting women in technology by ensuring equitable opportunities for growth, leadership, and representation. From hiring to career progression, we prioritize inclusive practices, with one-third of our interviewed candidates last year being women or from underrepresented groups.

Beyond recruitment, we invest in strong networks like our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and leadership initiatives such as Catalyst, a sponsorship program that pairs high-potential women with executive mentors to accelerate their careers. Our leaders are also held accountable through our Inclusive Leadership Index, reinforcing our commitment to real change.

While we’re proud of our progress, we recognize there’s more to do. Creating an environment where women in technology feel valued, heard, and empowered is an ongoing journey—one we are dedicated to advancing every day.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to build a career in tech and reach leadership positions?

My advice to young women aspiring to build a career in tech and reach leadership positions is simple: be fearless. Tech is an industry that thrives on innovation, and your unique perspective is invaluable. Confidence and perseverance will help you navigate challenges, but growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. If something scares you, say yes to it!

Early in my career, I was terrified of public speaking, but I realized avoiding it would limit my growth. By pushing myself, I not only overcame that fear but eventually found enjoyment in it.

Seek mentors, build a strong support network, and never stop learning. Surrounding yourself with people who challenge and uplift you will open doors to new opportunities. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself and others—representation truly matters. One day, you’ll be in a position to pay it forward, inspiring and guiding the next generation of women in technology. So embrace your ambitions, challenge barriers, and take your rightful place as a future leader in tech.

Are there any women-led projects or initiatives at Pure Storage that you’re particularly proud of?

There are several women-led initiatives at Pure Storage that I’m particularly proud of, especially Catalyst, our global sponsorship program aimed at advancing the careers of high-potential women and underrepresented talent. By pairing participants with executive sponsors, the program provides advocacy, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, helping women gain visibility and accelerate their careers.

I’m also proud of the progress we’ve made in increasing gender representation at leadership levels, including a 2% year-over-year increase in women directors. Our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) further support this effort by fostering mentorship, networking, and career development opportunities tailored for women in technology.

How do you see the role of women in tech evolving over the next few years, and what more can be done to accelerate change?

The role of women in tech is evolving in exciting ways, with more women stepping into leadership positions and serving on boards than ever before. There’s also a growing emphasis on engaging young girls in STEM early, supported by companies investing in educational programs that inspire the next generation. These shifts signal progress, and while there’s still work to be done, they show we’re on the right track.

To accelerate change, we need to keep challenging biases, advocating for equitable opportunities, and ensuring that mentorship and sponsorship programs help women advance at every stage of their careers. Acknowledging the gaps is just the first step—continued action is what will drive real, lasting impact.

What steps can companies take to ensure gender diversity is not just a goal but a sustained reality in the workplace?

Companies must move beyond setting diversity goals and focus on building an inclusive culture where gender diversity is embedded in everyday practices. This means ensuring fair hiring and promotion policies, pay parity, and strong mentorship and sponsorship programs that support women's career growth. Leadership development initiatives also play a key role in creating clear pathways for advancement.

Fostering a supportive environment where women feel valued is equally important. When organizations take these steps consistently, gender diversity becomes more than just a target—it becomes a lasting part of the workplace culture.