In today’s world, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers are some of the fastest-growing and most lucrative in the job market. Unfortunately, women remain vastly underrepresented in these fields. According to the National Girls Collaborative Project, women comprise only 34% of the STEM workforce. While there is a growing awareness of this issue and various organizations advocating for gender diversity in STEM fields, a significant gap in representation remains. Here are a few ways we can close the gap.
Educate girls about STEM
It is essential to educate girls on the importance of engineering and other STEM jobs and the impact they can have on society. Many girls may not consider engineering a potential career pathway because they do not understand what engineers do or the vast number of fields they can work in. Camps, clubs, and classes are great ways for girls to get involved and educated on the endless possibilities STEM fields have to offer.
Challenge stereotypes
An obstacle that many girls and women face in any STEM industry is gender bias. Society often reinforces the idea that these fields are more suitable for boys, which can make girls feel they do not belong or are not capable. It is important for us to challenge these stereotypes and create an inclusive environment that encourages and supports girls in pursuing their passions. By providing equal opportunities and mentorship, and by showcasing successful women in these fields, we can empower girls to break through these barriers and thrive in STEM.
My personal experience and role models
Making it to where I am today as a structural engineer has not been an easy path. In college especially, I dealt with a lot of sexism from my male classmates. A classmate once said to me, “You’ll switch to a teaching major by sophomore year.” I was completely excluded from engineering group projects strictly because of my gender. On top of keeping up with my rigorous engineering courseload, I constantly felt I had to prove myself.
Luckily, working at EVstudio has helped me feel as empowered as ever! Though the construction industry can still be tough for women, I have a great female boss, Katelyn, who has demonstrated how extremely capable women are and how vital we are to this industry. I have seen contractors question her authority despite her vast knowledge and experience, yet she still manages to command the room with grace and confidence. Role models like Katelyn are crucial to helping girls realize that gender does not limit their potential.
Share your thoughts!
To my fellow women in STEM, who helped steer you toward a STEM career or has been a mentor, what has encouraged you to stay involved, and how can we create a welcoming future for women in these industries?
Allison Stephens
Structural Project Designer
