The large number of computing-related startup companies hiring primarily young workers has created an environment in which many firms' technical teams consist largely of workers who are just out of college, sometimes giving the businesses fraternity-like cultures, leading to sexism that discourages female participation. The phenomenon of fraternity-like environments among technology teams of startup firms has been termed brogrammer culture.

     Brogrammer culture can refer to several different cultural barriers that women face went entering the computer science industry. The first is the traditional "men's club" philosophy that exists in many workplaces. This type of female exclusion can range from the boss taking "the guys" out for drinks, work meetings at notoriously non-female friendly places (sports bars or strip bars), and more. This is still a very serious problem in many workplaces.

     Another aspect of brogrammer culture stems from the stereotypes that exist about computer scientists. Many associate the concept of computer science with the term "hacker," and have a set notion of who they think that hacker is. Often it describes a white male in their early twenties, unkempt, unshaven, with a black t-shirt and bottle of Mountain Dew in hand. This perception of a computer scientist only serves to strengthen the notions that women just don't really belong there.