Ruth Blanco
Communications Director, WISE, the campaign for greater gender balance in STEM
We must look at how we can encourage more girls to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics and help them enter a career that makes a difference to the world.
Never before have STEM professionals been more in the public eye than during the COVID-19 global pandemic, and many of them have been women.
Making headlines
Over the last year we have seen examples of how science, technology, engineering and manufacturing can make a real difference to our world, from developing life-saving tests and vaccines, new technologies, medical equipment, to advising governments. We need use this as an opportunity to inspire future generations to consider these careers, especially girls.
We need you!
While many more women work in STEM roles today than ever before, it’s still not enough. We want more girls and women to have the opportunity to work in these vital roles.
We now have a real opportunity to show girls and their parents how studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics can lead to well-paid, high profile, cutting edge careers.
The influence of parents and teachers
It’s important that we not only inspire students but also their parents and provide support for teachers. Parents, particularly mothers, are the biggest influencers on their daughter’s career choices.
Demonstrating the variety of opportunities and positive support provided to women in science, technology and engineering can be a real eye-opener for them. Equally, helping teachers understand the wide range of roles their students could aspire to is incredibly important.
While many more women work in STEM roles today than ever before, it’s still not enough. We want more girls and women to have the opportunity to work in these vital roles.
Working together
We need to work together to ensure that more girls are given the opportunity to follow their dreams. We need more role models going into schools, especially those doing new types of work which students and teachers may not have heard of.
Employers, colleges and universities can play their part in inspiring students by hosting open days, offering work experience and projects to bring STEM subjects to life.