Ministers are to host a summit to tackle the perception that "some jobs just aren't for women".
Scotland's first Women's Employment Summit will be opened with an address from First Minister Alex Salmond.
It will also be attended by youth employment minister Angela Constance and Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
The event at Our Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh is jointly organised with Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) and 150 delegates are expected, with more dialling in from Inverness and Dumfries.
Ms Constance said: "This is a historic first and demonstrates the Scottish Government's commitment to tackling the barriers that women face in maximising job opportunities.
"Helping more women into work is a top priority if Scotland's economy is to grow faster and we are doing all we can to achieve that, including our plans to deliver the best package of flexible early learning and childcare anywhere in the UK.
"The need for increased childcare and the perception that some jobs just aren't for women are two key hurdles that we need to clear if we are to create a level playing field for all. We want to hear about the real-life experiences of women, both around the difficulties they've faced and the successes they've had.
"The summit will focus on identifying positive steps that public-sector bodies, employers, trade unions, other partners and women themselves can take to ensure that women can make their full contribution to Scotland's economic recovery.
"Women are central to Scotland's growth, so let's make sure that nothing stands in their way."
STUC general secretary Grahame Smith said: "The STUC looks forward to working with the Scottish Government and other stakeholders to take forward the recommendations of this summit in the interests of the women of Scotland and the Scottish economy as a whole."
