At IMC, we’re committed to changing that. The Women in Trading & Technology (WiTT) program is designed to introduce high-potential college students to the world of trading and technology in a hands-on, low-stakes environment. Over three days, this short, immersive experience gives STEM students a taste of what a career in this dynamic field could look like, as they participate in market-making simulations and coding challenges, and receive direct mentorship from IMC’s traders and engineers.

Introducing WiTT

Launched in January 2025, the program offers STEM-focused sophomores a rare opportunity to explore the fast-paced world of quantitative trading without the commitment of a long-term program. Alongside technical workshops and trading exercises, participants gain hands-on experience—and a sense of a typical day at a leading technology-driven trading firm.

“WiTT provides a strong introduction to IMC—the kinds of problems that our traders, engineers, and quant researchers are working on every day. It also highlights the technologies and unique, cross-functional approaches IMC takes to solve these challenges,” explains IMC Software Engineer Bazillah (Baz), the Tech Lead for our U.S. program.

Learning from IMC’s Leaders

Beyond technical experience, a defining feature of the WiTT program is the mentorship provided by experienced in-house professionals. Participants connect with IMC traders, engineers, and quant researchers who share insights into their career journeys and how the industry has evolved through the years.

The curriculum includes shadowing opportunities and mentorship sessions so that students can connect with the many impressive professionals already working here, across technology, trading, and quant research. “It’s a chance for curious, talented people to get to know each other, network, and leverage IMC’s distinct collaborative culture” says Karen, the Trading Lead for the U.S. program. The mentorship builds on existing initiatives in place at IMC Chicago, including women-focused employee groups (ERGs) and leadership development programs.

Insights from WiTT Program Attendees

Feedback from the inaugural U.S. WiTT program shows its success in increasing awareness of the industry and helping students picture themselves as a part of it.

For one participant, “It was eye-opening to encounter people from so many different backgrounds. If you possess the raw skills and the right attitude, you can contribute in your own unique way and bring your strengths to this community.”

Another participant shared, “Not just meeting all the other talented women here, but also connecting with IMC employees, hearing their stories, and learning from their experiences. It’s inspiring and makes me feel like I could see myself in this role.”

From interactive Q&A panels to real-world trading challenges, WiTT offers an authentic glimpse into the culture at IMC. “I liked how collaborative everything feels,” said one student. “The close connections between IMC’s trading, tech, and quant research teams came across naturally in the conversations I had with current team members.”

Stepping Stone to Success

As well as an introduction to the field, the WiTT program represents a long-term investment in the future of trading and technology. By equipping talented students with industry exposure and mentorship, IMC is helping build the next generation of leaders.

But, for IMC, this is more than just an educational initiative—it’s a way to connect with promising talent early in their academic journey. The trading industry thrives on innovation, and that requires people with diverse problem-solving approaches.

“We look for people who love tackling hard problems and who thrive in an intellectually rigorous environment,” says Karen. “We give students a chance to see if this industry is the right fit for them—without pressure, just pure exploration. In return, we engage with a pool of talented young individuals with the potential to add significant value to our business.”

With just three days of investment, participants gain valuable insights, hands-on experience, and a professional network that can open doors to future opportunities.