Earlier this week, I asked for your predictions for 2026 on questions ranging from women’s rethinking of corporate America to the ongoing impact of AI. Thank you so much to everyone who sent in their perspectives. You’re realistic about the challenges ahead—yet still bullish about women’s ability to push through them, make change, and deliver real results. Here’s what you’re expecting in the new year:
“In 2026, companies that fail to materially advance women into real decision-making roles will risk measurable economic consequences. Companies that succeed next year and beyond will be those that treat women’s advancement as an operating infrastructure tied to accountability, incentives, and outcomes, rather than as a values statement.” —Michelle Carnahan, co-founder & CEO of Arbiter
“Historically, women have excelled in connective tissue roles like COO, strategy, and planning. In 2026, we will see these operational roles become the primary feeder for the CEO seat (as AI automates routine tasks, orchestrating complex systems and driving speed will be the most valued skills in leaders). That fundamentally changes the traditional path to the top.” —Eléonore Crespo, co-founder and co-CEO of Pigment
