HSO Study: Women in Leadership Despite Structural Barriers
Women want to take on responsibility and are making targeted investments in continuing education—including in AI and leadership. However, the latest HSO study shows that structural barriers such as motherhood and a lack of supportive conditions continue to hinder their career advancement.
Women in leadership—this is no longer a distant vision of the future, but an actively pursued goal. This is demonstrated by the recent study «Women in Business & Leadership of Tomorrow» by the HSO School of Business and Information Technology, for which more than 120 female participants were surveyed. The majority clearly see themselves as part of the next generation of leaders and are actively preparing for this role—particularly through continuing education in artificial intelligence and executive leadership.
Continuing Education as a Strategic Investment
The results make it clear: For the women surveyed, continuing education is not a «nice-to-have,» but rather a deliberate career strategy. More than 90 percent are convinced that they will not advance professionally without targeted continuing education. Anna Heusser, Head of Education and School Operations and a member of the HSO Executive Board, comments: «It’s very encouraging to see that young women clearly recognize the great importance of continuous professional development for their career opportunities and are actively pursuing it. We are also clearly seeing this strong trend at HSO, reflected in growing interest, high motivation, and clear professional ambitions.»
Strong Will, Structural Obstacles
Despite high levels of motivation, the study reveals a clear tension: The desire to lead is there, but the broader conditions are not keeping pace. According to the federal government’s report on promoting young talent in STEM professions, women are not falling behind due to a lack of skills, but are held back by structural conditions and societal expectations. They remain significantly underrepresented in many technical professions—even though their potential for achievement is equal to that of men.
Anna Heusser emphasizes: «Despite strong motivation and clear ambitions, key obstacles remain for young women: limited time, financial burdens, and often a lack of or insufficient support from employers make it difficult to access continuing education and hinder career development. It is precisely these structural conditions that highlight just how essential flexible, easily accessible, and practical educational opportunities are.»
Motherhood as a Career Obstacle – Switzerland Is Not Yet Family-Friendly Enough
In the HSO survey, participants set out clear demands for the business and political sectors: more flexibility in work schedules, better financial support for continuing education, and conditions that truly make it possible to balance family and career. This is because many still experience a different reality: motherhood continues to be perceived as a barrier to career advancement, and, from the respondents’ perspective, Switzerland is not yet considered sufficiently family-friendly.
Women in Leadership: Ready—But Dependent on Support
The study’s findings paint a clear picture: Women are ready to take on leadership roles, pursue further education, and actively help shape the future—even in technology-driven fields. What is missing are framework conditions that keep pace with this development. The study thus provides a relevant impetus for companies, educational institutions, and policymakers alike.
For more information about the HSO and its educational programs: https://www.hso.ch
