Making an impact in a high-tech world where diversity rules with more opportunities for women

Putting the “smart” in smartphones is Qualcomm Technologies, which has been making breakthroughs in 3G, 4G and 5G communications systems to boost robust ecosystems, and enable everyone and everything to be intelligently connected. 

The company also actively fosters greater diversity, inclusivity and innovation within the technology landscape. Gone are the days when the tech industry was primarily a male-dominated scene which Alicia Lim-Rohner, Qualcomm’s head of marketing was part of in the earlier part of her career. Although she had to grapple with a steep learning curve, she succeeded with hard work and a determination to thrive. 

Now Qualcomm is taking the lead to make a difference to create equal opportunities for all, and drive advancements in AI and 5G technology to empower working professionals – especially women – to maximise their potential. 

Below, we speak to Alicia about how Qualcomm’s innovations and partnerships are creating more opportunities for women to excel in the era of AI.

What role does Qualcomm play in the transformation of the digital landscape – from laying the foundation for the 3G revolution to driving AI and 5G advancements today?

Our technology has enabled the creation of new industries, business models and experiences, thus transforming economies and altering the competitive landscape. Services such as ride hailing, sharing content on social media, video streaming, high-precision GPS, chat services and crowdsourced directions depend on Qualcomm. 

As a leader in on-device AI and 5G, we are in a unique position to make hybrid AI a reality. Our hardware and software solutions bring cutting-edge AI capabilities to billions of devices. But what truly sets us apart is our commitment to democratising AI's benefits, leveling the playing field for women and under-represented groups in the tech world. 

How is Qualcomm empowering women to thrive at work and enrich their lives today?

We’ve taken the hybrid work experience to the next level with our Always Connected PC Solution. This means you can insert a data SIM card and get access to 4G/5G wherever you are. Powered by mobile platform Snapdragon, our Always Connect PCs – Lenovo ThinkPad X13s and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 5G – are packed with multi-day battery life, multitasking and AI capabilities, while providing a reliable platform for remote work. 

Thus, you can expect secure connection at all times, background noise suppression and long battery life (13 to 20 hours) of connected devices. These features empower working professionals, especially women who strive to balance work and family responsibilities, to be effective and efficient in their duties.

On the mobile front, Samsung's latest flagship devices like the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5 which are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, showcase groundbreaking AI capabilities and other enhancements. Its Kryo CPU, for instance, helps to boost speed and power efficiency. They streamline daily tasks for users’ convenience, which can prove to be transformative for working women on the go.

What makes you proud to be a changemaker at Qualcomm? 

I've had the privilege of spearheading impactful programmes that uplift women entrepreneurs and promote diversity in Stem education. 

One standout programme is HerVenture, a mobile learning app that has equipped over 80,000 women in micro and small enterprises with essential business skills in countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia.

We’ve also partnered with FIRST Lego League, a programme to introduce hands-on learning to youth, in support of global Stem education. It’s been three years since the expansion of our FIRST support to Singapore to make Stem education more accessible and engaging. Globally, this partnership with FIRST was designed to empower girls and young women. 

What does the future hold for women as they take greater strides in the traditionally male-dominated technological industry? 

Today, the tech landscape places a significant emphasis on diversity and more women have entered – and succeeded – in this industry, contributing to a more dynamic sector rich with innovations. I’m confident that women will continue to make remarkable strides, shaping the future of tech in unimaginable ways.