Take a look at the top management of most wireless firms and you'll be hard-pressed to find many women executives. The telecom industry is notoriously male-dominated and the wireless segment is no exception. I've been reporting on the wireless industry for more than 15 years and I've become accustomed to walking around a show floor at a wireless conference or sitting in on a panel session and seeing a sea of men in business attire.
Over the past few years, however, the number of women executives in the industry has increased. I think much of this change can be attributed to the convergence of the internet and the entertainment industries with the wireless industry. Not only has that convergence brought new companies into the wireless ecosystem but it's also helped make the industry more gender diverse.
I also think the odds are improving thanks to many of the women who have made their way to the top of the industry. That's why the editors at FierceWireless have decided to recognize the women that we believe are at the top of their game. These power players were selected for their technical savvy, their leadership and perhaps most importantly, their influence in an industry where female executives are a rarity. Check out our list here. --Sue