#ifbw25 - Review

Build autonomous robots, program games, apply design thinking, understand language models and cybersecurity, and practise giving presentations – There was once again plenty to experience at the informatica feminale BW 2025 summer school

‘Great content, great opportunities for further training and networking, all in all a superb event.’, this quote from one participant sums up informatica feminale BW 2025 quite well. But what makes the event so special? "Meeting on equal terms, regardless of whether we had a lot of life experience or less, everyone was treated with the same amount of respect, which created a very pleasant and honest atmosphere in which everyone felt valued and heard. I also gained a lot of perspective.“

Around 90 female students and professionals, mainly from the field of computer science, took part in 15 current technical and social skills courses from 29 July to 2 August 2025. This year, more than 30 female professionals were also on hand to share their expertise and provide a varied supporting programme.

In addition to the courses, some of which lasted several days, there were several discussion rounds and workshops. Participants learned how to balance family and career, how to organise themselves better with the help of neuroscience, and what constitutes the ‘magic of feedback.’ In a discussion round on ‘Career paths for women in IT & computer science,’ important role models provided insights into their own straightforward and winding career paths.

Fun in the evenings

To ensure that everyone had fun, there was a colourful supporting programme. Progressive muscle relaxation allowed everyone to learn something about themselves, while the homemade LaserTag games provided a real adrenaline rush. A round of Spikeball was a great way to get tired bodies moving again after a day of learning.

This year's event was dominated by the 25th anniversary celebrations of informatica feminale BW and the organising network Frauen.Innovation.Technik. On 29 July 2025, the Neckarhalle played host to a festive ceremony looking back on the last 25 years. But of course, a look into the future was also taken. In her keynote speech, Dr Ramona Casasola-Greiner provided insight into what current developments in the field of AI mean, especially for women. She then discussed the resulting challenges and problems with Prof. Nicola Marsden, Assist. Prof. Ece Özkan Elsen, and Dr Nicole Najemnik.

Of course, musical accompaniment, delicious food and entertainment were also part of the programme. A poster exhibition presented exciting women from 25 years of project work, while a table magician and a puzzle expert often left guests amazed. Naturally, many new contacts were made and existing ones cultivated – entirely in keeping with the spirit of the Summer School.

After the Summer School is before the Winter School

Preparations are already underway for meccanica feminale – the counterpart for female students and professionals, particularly from the fields of engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and medical technology. The Winter School will take place from 24 to 28 February 2026 at Furtwangen University (Schwenningen). Both university weeks organised by women for women are being organised by the Frauen.Innovation.Technik network based at Furtwangen University. The events are being held on behalf of and with financial support from the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts.

Overview of the programme of ifbw25

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