(Photo : Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash)

Every March, Women's History Month celebrates the accomplishments of outstanding women, the mountains they've climbed, the glass ceilings they've broken through, and the imprint they have left on society. While women have made substantial progress in the world of work and continue to climb the organizational ladder, many fields, such as IT, still appear resistant to gender diversity. 

There are many barriers that deter women from establishing careers in a male-dominated space. Excluding women from male-oriented networks, not believing that women are technically skilled, and perceiving women in terms of appearance - these are only a few. However, there are women who not only manage to establish successful careers, over many years, but many of them have ventured into the world of entrepreneurship in work environments dominated by men, including IT. 

If you're a woman who wants to start your own IT company, you're not in this alone. Women's business ownership is on the rise; the United States has over 12 million women-owned businesses. However, every industry is different, and there are known and unknown barriers that women need to break through to establish themselves in their chosen industry. So, how can young women break into male-dominated spaces like IT? 

While there are women professionals in every industry, we wanted to know: what is it like to establish a woman-owned business in a male-dominated industry, and what advice can women leaders in male-dominated industries offer young women considering the same move? The best advice comes from those who've experienced it, which is why we spoke with Krystal Triumph, Vice-President of Atlantic-IT.net to find out.

Krystal Triumph, Vice-President of Atlantic-IT.net, is making a difference in the IT sector, an area still dominated by her male counterparts. ''The technology industry is a relatively young industry growing fast but still heavily dominated by men'', said Triumph. 

"To break into the field, I found having a degree, certifications, and knowledge of a product and its benefits to either consumers or businesses is beneficial. It helps provide some additional validation to your experience when someone asks if you are bringing in your male partner or why you have your position.

Second, finding a mentor within the field or being an apprentice can help prepare you. This mentor does not have to be a woman but learning from someone with industry experience. Have patience and take the time to understand the process. While working in a male-dominated field, you might think you need to act more like a man; however, don't forget your feminine charm.

Attention to detail, problem-solving, empathy, and understanding most women have. Being able to come up with new solutions or processes will help your company, client, and industry will help you not only break in but thrive. Learn to be very disciplined and focused.

As women, we are gifted to wear many roles, and while women might not heavily populate some industries, we have so many women that have already opened doors for us. Now it is up to us to continue going through the door. "

Gain Rich Knowledge Along the Way

Many women feel that they need to know absolutely everything before taking on a challenge, but sometimes you have to learn what you can along the way and be prepared to upgrade your skills along the way. Gain rich knowledge and experience first, then turn it into your own - but make it better. Women who want to be entrepreneurs in the IT industry must look for opportunities to build their skills and knowledge. It is important for young women to realize that no one is going to come in and show you everything that you need to know, but do not let anything stop you from teaching yourself and asking for opportunities to learn.

Seek Help Along the Way

Very few entrepreneurs can make it entirely on their own, and that is one of the reasons why Krystal Triumph advocates building support networks. It's important that young women are not afraid to ask for help. If you have questions about the IT industry, and you know someone like Triumph, ask that person to help you. It's important to find a balance between developing your skills and knowing when it's best to ask for help so you can improve your craft and grow your business.

As an entrepreneur in the IT sector, you must know how to look outward. Don't be afraid to ask other people for their perspectives, ideas, and input, as it will be critical to future-proofing your business.

Build a Team and Trust in Them

It is also important to understand the impact of placing your trust in your team. It can be difficult to give up some control, but not knowing when to let go can severely limit your ability to grow. As an entrepreneur, you have the chance to choose who you work with. Therefore, once you've determined what your goals will be, you have to learn how to put your trust in your team with the jobs you've given them.

Don't Let the Opportunity Get Away from You

It takes an incredible amount of bravery to climb mountains and shatter glass ceilings, but young women who want to have their own IT companies should not let their fears hold them back. Fear can hold anyone back, but it should not be your reason for letting your dream get away from you. Women entrepreneurs need to be calculated risk-takers. Remember what you set out to do and keep pushing towards that goal, regardless of the challenges that you face.

It's important to find a reward in the process. For many, the process is the reward. You can find progress when you're not looking for it. There will be times when you put everything you have into preparing for something, just to have the result not match your effort. That's why young women who have dreams of becoming entrepreneurs in male-dominated spaces should find rewards in the process. Don't just look at the result. If you are able to find a reward in the process, you'll walk away every day with a sense of satisfaction.