There is a significant gender gap that cannot be ignored when it comes to STEM careers.
How can we attract more women to choose STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)? Explore these four ways to incentivize more women to enter male-dominated careers. In this way, we continue to contribute to closing the gap.
We now live in a fantastic era where women are encouraged to pursue virtually any profession. However, the gender gap in STEM careers is substantial and shows no signs of closing soon. While this field is expanding and women can achieve great success, they must challenge the stereotypes surrounding these industries.
1. Introducing Girls to STEM Subjects from Primary School
If we want women to excel in STEM industries or at least reduce the growing gender gap, we must encourage the next generation to embrace STEM-related subjects and goals. It’s time to give girls the option to expand their minds beyond artistic disciplines and invite them to explore an interesting, fun, and exploratory world of new discoveries. Schools are incorporating STEM-focused themes, inviting young girls to participate in programs that delve into sciences and mathematics—essential foundations for a successful STEM career.
Women in STEM can also take mentoring to another level by volunteering their time to educate the next generation about the importance of female inclusion in this field.
2. Participate in Eliminating Intimidation Factors
For women to thrive professionally in male-dominated STEM careers, we must encourage and empower them to develop strong confidence and overcome intimidation. It’s easy to feel cornered by gender-biased language in job descriptions within male-dominated sectors, but succumbing to such feelings won’t benefit women.
At times, women may perceive themselves as the weaker gender. This perception has been ingrained in some minds, and it’s up to them to demonstrate that the unfounded notion of being inferior to men is simply a product of outdated imagination. When negotiating salaries, women should believe they deserve more and be willing to assert themselves when necessary.
3. Empower Girls to Maintain a Team Mindset in STEM-Related Issues
Leading a team in a predominantly male environment can be challenging for some women. When given the opportunity to lead, women should do so confidently while maintaining a collaborative mindset. Delegating tasks based on individual strengths and showing a shared commitment to the team’s success is key to earning respect and recognition as a leader in the STEM field.
4. Find Trustworthy STEM Mentors
Mentors serve as role models we can emulate to build our own professional qualities. Focusing on finding excellent female mentors with whom we, as women, can engage in conversations within STEM industries is crucial. You can emulate their leadership style and take note of how they behave professionally and connect with others in the same industry.
Once women have achieved their status within their STEM careers, it’s time to give back. We should proactively guide other young women entering the industry. Knowledge is power, and empowering future generations with that knowledge is possibly the most impactful way women can make a positive difference in others’ lives.
Include new women entering STEM careers in webinars, meetings, and projects. By mentoring new talents, they can influence the industry as a whole.
Currently, the industry is male-dominated, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. The key to women’s success in STEM careers is for them to be encouraged and to recognize that they can work alongside men, understanding that it’s not a male-exclusive industry. Encourage women of all ages to embrace science, technology, engineering, and mathematics as their profession, and soon we’ll witness the end of male dominance in these industries.
Now that you’ve explored the four ways to encourage more women to enter male-dominated STEM careers, what will you do differently?
