What can be done to increase diversity in STEM fields?
First, increasing diversity in STEM fields is crucial to foster innovation, enhance problem-solving skills, and ensure equitable access to opportunities and resources for all. And, much can be done to facilitate this. Programs in and outside of schools, encouraging participation from everyone, need to begin in early grade schools. Society must cultivate a network of mentors, teachers, and professionals who can guide a diverse body of students interested in STEM. Establish diverse role models in STEM fields to inspire and motivate underrepresented groups of individuals. Highlight successful professionals from various backgrounds to showcase the possibilities and guarantee equal access to quality STEM education regardless of one’s background. where one lives or socioeconomic status.
Describe your experiences as a woman in a STEM career.
For me, it all began at home. I was always encouraged to study math and science from an early age. I was never held back or stopped from pursuing a career in STEM. My mother, a nutrition science professor, and my father, an engineer, were excellent role models. They inspired me and encouraged me to participate in science fairs. The whole family was excited when I chose an electrical engineering degree for my undergraduate studies, even though it was not a field many women pursued at the time. Post graduate school, I was very fortunate to have excellent mentors who opened technical leadership opportunities for me. To this day, I can rely on my mentors to support me and be there to brainstorm ideas when needed. Many times, in the technology field, you find yourself as the only woman at the table. Gender bias can be an impediment to your success. There are gender-based differences in management and communication styles. A supportive organization like SmartBear that advocates actively for women has made this journey easier.
Being a woman in STEM in 2024 involves resilience, determination, and a commitment to breaking down barriers. While progress has been made, there’s still work to be done to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all aspiring women.
It means honoring the work of those who came before, ensuring opportunities for future generations. It involves maintaining a strong work ethic and inspiring other women to join these fields, which offer both challenges and gratification. It also means educating and partnering with your male colleagues to create change.
Like all other careers, women in STEM must find a delicate balance between family and career. While much progress has happened in this area, many barriers remain. Pay inequality, gender bias, higher stress and burn-out, and fewer leadership opportunities are just some of them. The gratification of following your dream makes any of the challenges worth conquering. With new and exciting fields that have opened with OpenAI, advancing artificial intelligence (AI) research and applications, we need more women in STEM than ever before.
