Because that question is easily answered: It seems the more desirable goal would be that women and men can equally find the kind of work they want, instead of being forced into or out-of jobs on some purposeless quota system.

If there is a 1:1 applicant pool then absolutely! If there is not a 1:1 hiring ratio implies hiring less qualified applicants to reach a quota (assuming equal distribution of skill, which I think most people would agree is the case).