What can be done to increase diversity in STEM fields?
From a young age, parents, teachers, and community members should be encouraging girls to take an interest in and advance in subjects that may not be the ones that come most naturally to them. The failure to do that, and gender bias in the classroom, can adversely impact the self-esteem of very bright and driven young girls. This can cause girls to give up on their dreams of a STEM career before they even get started. The sooner we can nurture and celebrate all children’s educational aspirations and achievements, the sooner they will be able to learn perseverance in the face of adversity. Only then will we end up with a generation that is able to advocate for and bring their authentic selves to whichever career they choose.
What barriers do you see to closing the gender gap in STEM?
Women in all fields, including in STEM, need to be listened to and taken seriously. This needs to happen from the get-go, like it does for men, rather than after the woman has been “tested” or to make sure she is a reliable source of information. Inherent and unconscious biases often lead people (whatever their gender identity) to be skeptical when a woman is authoritative on an issue, particularly when that woman is disagreeing with a man. Unraveling this cultural norm will take time and effort.
What can be done to move women forward in STEM?
Women need mentors—whatever their gender identity—who will champion and support them as they seek to enter, and make their way, through STEM fields. Having a committed mentor gives women the courage to try new things and have a point of view. It also enables women to have the backing to develop confidence in traditionally male-dominated fields. Women need permission to be true to themselves and should not feel pressured to bring a more masculine energy to the table. Appreciating women for their credentials and their unique personalities will create a group of women in STEM who are a force to be reckoned with!
What else would you like our readers to know about being a woman in a STEM career in 2024?
I am also extremely lucky to have worked at a law firm with a culture of respect, and to have had several mentors who I can only describe as “diversity champions.” Each has unfailingly supported me, my passions, and my career, and has allowed me to stay true to who I am, without sweating the small stuff. Ten years in, I am excited and optimistic about my future, and the futures of all women and people who want to pursue STEM careers.
