WiDS VILLACH 2025: WOMEN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF AI
On April 10th, 2025, the campus of Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (CUAS Villach) once again became a vibrant hub for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
For the sixth time, the “Women in Data Science” (WiDS) conference took place at the tpv Technology Park Villach, attracting a diverse and international audience of around 320 participants. Approximately 67 attendees joined the event via a professional livestream, allowing them to benefit from the inspiring presentations from anywhere in the world. What is particularly impressive: participants from 51 nations were represented, underscoring the inclusive nature and international significance of the conference.
This year, WiDS Villach welcomed Carinthia University of Applied Sciences Rector Wolfgang Granig, University of Klagenfurt Rector Ada Pellert, and Member of the National Council Petra Oberrauner as guests of honor.
INSPIRING MORE WOMEN TO ENTER DATA SCIENCE
The “Women in Data Science” initiative was originally launched at Stanford University and has since pursued a clear mission: to increase the visibility and long-term representation of women in Data Science and AI. To this day, fewer than 20 percent of professionals in the IT and AI sectors are women – a disparity that not only reinforces social inequality but also leaves significant economic potential untapped. WiDS addresses this issue head-on: by specifically promoting female talent, the initiative aims to overcome unconscious biases and pave the way for a more balanced and inclusive future.
WiDS ambassadors Olivia Pfeiler and Anita Kloss-Brandstätter made this clear in their inspiring keynote “From Vision to Success – The Journey of WiDS Villach.” Using both global and local examples, they demonstrated how WiDS has a tangible impact and actively supports women in succeeding in AI and Data Science.
TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS WITH EXCITING REAL-WORLD EXAMPLES
A major highlight, again this year, was the Technical Vision Sessions. In “Riding the Data Science Wave: Unveiling Insights from Motion Data,” expert speakers impressively showcased the complexity and diversity of motion analysis using sensor data (“wearables”). Whether in elite sports, medical prosthetics, or motocross – AI enables precise capture and analysis of complex biomechanical data, opening up entirely new fields of application.
The second session, “The Special of Spatial in Data Science,” clearly illustrated the immense importance of spatial data today – for example, in real estate valuation, where the adage “location, location, location” holds true. The session also highlighted how spatial data is used in the optimal placement of photovoltaic systems, in analyzing boat traffic in relation to water quality, and in strategic risk assessment for urban air mobility.
GIRLS IN DATA SCIENCE – CREATIVE IMPULSES FOR YOUNG TALENTS
Once again this year, the "GiDS – Girls in Data Science" initiative inspired with creative projects that introduce young girls to Data Science in a playful way. Students from CHS Villach presented “POWER WO/MEN” – powerful paintings honoring brave and strong women in science, politics, and culture. These artworks were later displayed in an exhibition at the conference.
A new feature this year was the addition of interactive workshops held at schools in the run-up to the conference. Guided by WiDS members, students implemented exciting projects whose results were also exhibited. In the workshop “ArcGIS: A New Take” at BG/BRG St. Martin Villach, students created innovative links between digital maps and 3D models. BG/BRG Lienz and HTL Villach worked on the project “Swing, Putt, Analyze: A Data Science Journey in Golf Data,” which helped develop students’ analytical skills and presentation techniques.
TOGETHER TOWARDS A DIVERSE DIGITAL FUTURE
WiDS Villach 2025 made it clear how essential it is to support and connect women and young talent in data science. The event once again sent a strong message for diversity, inclusion, and the active shaping of a digital future in which women play a central role. WiDS Villach thus makes a significant contribution to a fairer, more diverse, and future-ready society.
