Renee Noble has stressed the “absolutely critical” role mentors play for women in technology, following her award win at the 2026 Women Leading Tech Awards at Sydney’s ICC earlier this month.
Currently serving as CEO and national director of Girls’ Programming Network (GPN), Noble has spent years designing a full-pipeline mentoring model that guides girls from primary school through to senior leadership roles in technology.
Speaking to B&T after winning the Mentor Award, Noble reflected on the gaps she experienced herself during her school years.
“I honestly didn’t have access to programming when I was at school,” she said. “It’s something I wish I’d had, and it’s why I’m so passionate about making sure the next generation of girls knows this is a career they can pursue, and a skill they can develop from an early age.”
Noble stressed the importance of mentorship for women navigating the technology industry.
“Having someone looking out for you, professionally and personally, is absolutely critical,” she said.
“It doesn’t have to be a formal mentoring relationship; it can be as simple as someone giving guidance, sharing experiences, or helping you navigate challenges. I was incredibly lucky to have Nikki Ringland, the founder of GPN, as my mentor – she’s been there throughout my journey, and I aim to be that same support for others.”
Over the past year, Noble has focused on strengthening GPN’s leadership structure, upskilling ten volunteers into committee roles, and improving program delivery for students.
These changes, she said, ensure “a more supportive experience for volunteers” while also boosting the quality of guidance available to girls and young women.
“Mentorship and early exposure to programming aren’t just nice to have – they are fundamental to building confidence and skills for women in tech,” Noble added.
“The more we can provide these opportunities, the more we’ll see women and gender-diverse people thrive in this industry.”
