Women in Tech, Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Caitlin Gould on Building Technology That Makes a Difference
Season 4 • Episode 4
27 min
Published July 2026
Women in Tech • Entrepreneurship • Innovation
Episode summary
Rebecca Franks and Beverly Clarke MBE are joined by Caitlin Gould, Founder and CEO of TecGirls and TecWomen Cornwall, to discuss her journey from graphic design into technology and entrepreneurship. Caitlin shares how her career evolved through publishing, digital marketing and software before launching multiple businesses focused on empowering women and girls through technology.
The conversation explores the challenges of building startups, developing products that solve real problems and creating opportunities for more women and girls to pursue careers in technology. Caitlin explains how TecGirls and TecWomen Cornwall use innovative approaches to reach remote communities, build confidence and introduce learners to careers in AI, cybersecurity, coding and digital technologies. Rebecca and Beverly also discuss entrepreneurship, transferable skills and why curiosity is one of the most valuable qualities anyone can develop.
As the episode concludes, Caitlin reflects on the importance of protecting intellectual property, building strong business relationships and learning through failure. Together they discuss trademarks, storytelling, grant funding and why creating technology with empathy, inclusion and purpose leads to better products and stronger communities.
Journey insights
- Curiosity opens the door to new opportunities and lifelong learning.
- Technology should be designed to solve real problems for real people.
- Building strong relationships is essential for successful entrepreneurship.
- Failure is often the beginning of growth rather than the end.
- Protecting your intellectual property is an important part of building a business.
Is this episode for you?
This episode is for you if you are:
- Teachers encouraging more girls into technology.
- Women considering careers in tech.
- Entrepreneurs building technology businesses.
- EdTech founders and innovators.
- Anyone interested in STEM, innovation and creating positive social impact.
About this episode
Rebecca Franks and Beverly Clarke MBE are joined by Caitlin Gould, Founder and CEO of TecGirls and TecWomen Cornwall, to discuss innovation, entrepreneurship and inspiring more women and girls to pursue careers in technology. Together they explore startup life, STEM education, intellectual property, grant funding and why curiosity, resilience and strong relationships are key to building successful businesses.
About the speakers
Caitlin Gould
Caitlin Gould is the Founder and CEO of TecGirls and TecWomen Cornwall, organisations dedicated to inspiring more women and girls to explore careers in technology. Drawing on her background in graphic design, digital marketing and software, Caitlin develops innovative programmes that build confidence, tackle inequality and create opportunities across Cornwall and beyond.
Rebecca Franks
Rebecca Franks is an award-winning technology educator, entrepreneur and Co-founder of Flip Computing. With more than 20 years of experience in education, she has authored national computing curricula, developed AI education programmes and speaks internationally about technology, inclusion and innovation. Rebecca is passionate about helping people build confidence, develop digital skills and discover rewarding careers in technology.
Beverly Clarke MBE
Beverly Clarke MBE is a technology leader, educator, coach and author with over 20 years of experience in education and digital skills. She is the author of the Ava and Chip children’s book series and is passionate about digital inclusion, artificial intelligence, coaching and empowering people to achieve their potential. Beverly was awarded an MBE for services to computing and digital education.
Together, Rebecca and Beverly share honest conversations about technology, careers, entrepreneurship and the lessons they are learning along the way.
Resources mentioned
- TecGirls
- TecWomen Cornwall
- Reach for the Sky Festival
- Cyber Guardians
- Grant funding
- Intellectual Property Office
- Trademark registration
- Women in STEM
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial intelligence
