Colatrella, who is a professor, associate dean in the Ivan Allen College, and co-director of the Georgia Tech Center for the Study of Women, Science and Technology, does research in cultural studies, narrative theory, and feminist theory. Her most recent book is Toys and Tools in Pink: Cultural Narratives of Gender, Science, and Technology.

The culture may be changing, however. The RSA Conference's new exhibitor rules say that all expo staff should dress in a way that's "considered appropriate in a professional environment" and that clothing of an "overly revealing or suggestive nature" won't be permitted.

To read Colatrella's comments on the sexism that still exists at trade shows, go to http://www.cnet.com/news/scantily-clad-booth-babes-at-tech-trade-shows-get-wardrobe-check/