4 Reasons Why We Need Women in STEM

In honor of Women’s History Month, I am excited to write on a topic that is close to my heart: why we need women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) professions. For those who followed along my novice blogging journey, I am a former scientist who, outside of my normal day job, runs this fashion blog. People are commonly surprised when they find out about my background. For someone who enjoys wearing skirts and high heels, I understand that my style is not what people envision when they hear ‘scientist.’

As a woman in science, one of the biggest hurdles I face is managing assumptions and stereotypes. I am lucky I had some great teachers and professors who supported me. However, I also recall the times my credibility was in question for the way I looked. Gender biases are a huge detractor for women entering the STEM fields. These biases can lead to a huge confidence gap in early childhood development. And for women who do end up pursuing STEM careers, a large percentage eventually leave.

Whether you are a woman in this industry or elsewhere, I hope you find this post encouraging. Here are 3 reasons why we need women in STEM that resonate with me the most.

#1: We deserve a voice in the world we inhabit.

There is no denying the importance of science in the midst of a raging pandemic, and urgent climate crisis. Meanwhile, technology continues to power our means of connection and commerce. Some of the most cutting-edge, and forward-looking roles are in STEM. If women make up half of the world population, then it is important we make decisions that shape the world we inhabit too.

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#2: Innovation requires diversity.

It should go without saying, but thinking outside the box becomes quite hard when everyone in the room looks the same. Many STEM professions are male-centric. However, it is crucial to include women in conversations that uncover ideas and experiences that only we can share. Conversely, our participation also ensures that fundamental systems, such as medicine and healthcare, account for our well-being too.

Case in Point: Medical history has shown that gender biases prevent women from receiving treatment tailored to our unique anatomy. Another eye-opening example: most corporate offices are set to temperatures that are comfortable for the average white, male. (As if women do not have enough to carry, I used to bring an extra cardigan into every office I ever worked in)

#3: We, women, have the qualities to succeed in STEM.

Looking back, I roll my eyes at those who ever told me ‘math is for boys.’ You may have heard variations of this statement throughout your childhood. At its core, I believe it is rooted in one false belief: that somehow, men and women are built with different competencies in math or other analytical fields.

As an example, I recently read about the effects of ‘math anxiety‘ in schooling systems. Teachers, who are mostly women, may project their insecurity in math onto girls. Some may even grade them harsher than boys. In the long run, it creates the false perception that girls need to work harder in order to achieve the same results.

My point is, these gender stereotypes can come from both women and men. However, there are no biological differences that separate our competencies in math at all! In fact, in addition to our equally built intellect, women possess amazing leadership qualities as well:

• We handle crises well.
• Women have high emotional intelligence, and empathy.
• We are adaptable.

Obviously, everyone has room to grow. I still go through days when I question my abilities, and how I got here. However, I take a step back and remind myself: You can do hard things. You have done hard things.

#4: Let’s close that Gender Pay Gap.

According to the 2018 Census Bureau, women earned 82 cents for every $1 earned by men of all races. If our base pay is what our raises are calculated upon, then this gap compounds over time. In order to correct this course, we need to start showing up in the places where our voices are not traditionally heard.

Why We Need Women in STEM

Gender biases continue to hold women back from STEM roles. While we make up nearly half of the world population, we represent far less in science and engineering roles. Although this number has gone up in the past decade, we need to keep pushing our way towards progress. Our participation is what supports innovation, pay equity, and a better future.

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