For Melissa Minchala, a career in computer science wasn’t something she initially set out to pursue—it was something she stumbled into and fell in love with. As the co-founder and president of DataVelocity, a New York-based IT solutions firm, Minchala first discovered her passion for technology and software support while studying psychology in college.

“I applied for a job as a receptionist, and they asked if I had ever used Excel,” she recalls. Eager to secure the position, she quickly familiarized herself with the program’s basics. What began as a small task soon led her to an unexpected passion.

“I discovered I really liked supporting software,” she says. “I started teaching myself macros, and within a few months, I was working for a tech firm in Manhattan.”

Over the course of two decades, Minchala has worn many hats in the IT field, but she says that systems analysis has been the most rewarding.

Women Thriving in IT and STEM Fields

The tech industry is historically male-dominated, but certain roles—such as computer systems analyst—are making strides toward gender balance. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that in 2013, women made up 34.9% of computer systems analysts, making it one of the most female-inclusive IT careers.

With strong salaries and a projected job growth rate of 25% through 2022, computer systems analyst ranks among CareerCast.me’s best jobs for women in 2014.

Despite these strides, Silicon Valley—America’s tech capital—still struggles with gender diversity. According to the Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology, women only make up 20–23% of the Silicon Valley workforce annually. However, with IT rapidly expanding into all areas of business and daily life, the industry is gradually becoming more inclusive.

Minchala believes that passion is the key to success in any industry:

“When you follow your passion, the doors just kind of open up.”

Entrepreneurship: A Path to Career Growth for Women

For many women, starting their own business offers flexibility, financial security, and personal fulfillment. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there were 10.6 million female-owned businesses in 2013, a substantial increase from the 1990s.

Neta Yoffe is one such entrepreneur. In 2012, she founded NetaPR, a New York-based public relations firm specializing in social media and online marketing. Yoffe believes that public relations is one of the best career fields for women, whether working in a start-up or a large corporation.

Her assessment is supported by BLS data, which reports that women make up over 70% of PR professionals. Additionally, salaries in PR have steadily increased, making it a lucrative and rewarding career path.

Top Careers Where Women Excel

Several industries have high female representation and offer salaries that are on par with male counterparts. Some of the best jobs for women in 2014 include:

  • Occupational and Physical Therapists – Helping patients recover from injuries or disabilities while earning competitive salaries.
  • Event Planners – A fast-growing career with high demand in corporate, private, and entertainment sectors.
  • Advertising and Marketing Managers – Leading brand strategy and business growth in a dynamic, creative field.
  • Human Resources Managers – Shaping workplace culture and managing talent acquisition.
  • Education Administrators – Overseeing school operations while helping shape future generations.

A Bright Future for Women in the Workforce

As industries continue to evolve, opportunities for women are expanding in STEM, entrepreneurship, and business leadership. With competitive salaries, strong job growth, and increasing gender diversity, 2014 is a promising year for women to thrive in their careers.

Top 10 Best Jobs for Women in 2014

1. Computer Systems Analyst

BLS Annual Median Salary: $81,190
With women making up 34.9% of the workforce in this field, computer systems analysts are in high demand. The job offers strong salaries, career stability, and room for advancement, making it a great fit for women looking to thrive in the tech industry.

2. Public Relations Specialist

BLS Annual Median Salary: $54,170
More than 70% of PR professionals are women, and salaries in this field continue to increase. With a blend of communication, strategy, and creativity, PR is one of the best careers for women in corporate, agency, and entrepreneurial settings.

3. Occupational Therapist

BLS Annual Median Salary: $78,810
Helping people recover from injuries and disabilities, occupational therapy is a high-growth healthcare field with flexible scheduling and fulfilling work. Women dominate this career path, making up 80% of the workforce.

4. Event Planner

BLS Annual Median Salary: $45,810
For women who enjoy organization, creativity, and fast-paced work, event planning is an excellent career choice. With a booming industry, event coordinators work in corporate, private, and entertainment sectors.

5. Advertising and Marketing Manager

BLS Annual Median Salary: $115,750
With women making up 47% of the marketing and advertising industry, this field offers high earning potential, creative flexibility, and leadership opportunities in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

6. Human Resources Manager

BLS Annual Median Salary: $99,720
With women comprising 72% of HR professionals, human resources is an excellent career path for those who excel at communication, problem-solving, and organizational leadership.

7. Education Administrator

BLS Annual Median Salary: $86,970
For women passionate about education and leadership, working as a school principal, college administrator, or program director provides career stability, great benefits, and the opportunity to shape future generations.

8. Financial Analyst

BLS Annual Median Salary: $76,950
With an increasing number of women entering finance, financial analysts help individuals and companies make strategic investment decisions. This career offers strong earning potential, career growth, and job security.

9. Biomedical Engineer

BLS Annual Median Salary: $86,960
A fast-growing field within STEM, biomedical engineering is a great choice for women with technical and problem-solving skills who want to work at the intersection of medicine and technology.

10. Registered Nurse

BLS Annual Median Salary: $65,470
With nursing being one of the most female-dominated professions, registered nurses have job stability, diverse work environments, and numerous career advancement opportunities, from hospital care to research and leadership roles.