Despite the I.T. industry's best efforts, future generations of girl geeks aren't exactly spawning at breakneck speed.

A recent survey of students conducted for Microsoft Canada Co. found that while three-quarters of females used computers and other technological devices enthusiastically during the course of their day, just over a quarter of those – 28% – had any interest in pursuing a career in I.T. Among male students, in contrast, 50% of those who said they used technology daily were interested in a tech career. Those women who gave tech the thumbs-down were most likely to do so because "it's boring" (35% of those who nixed I.T.).

Oddly, a quarter also said they didn't know anything about technology. Concerns about pay levels and the job market also figured in both male and female responses.