Barriers in S.T.E.M.

A study found that over half of the young women interviewed were interested in a career in STEM, however 78% of these women were discouraged by gender barriers within the field. The need for women to enter a STEM career, in particular those from minority groups such as African-Americans or Hispanics, is vital for a more inclusive workforce. Only 30% of world researchers are women, and this gap must be closed. There is a lack of opportunities for female and non-binary people within the STEM field for students going through high school today.

Not only are some women passionate about STEM, but they have proven to be extremely successful. Anne-Marie Imafidon is an excellent example for young women. She was the youngest girl to pass A-level computing at age 11, and among the youngest to receive a Computer Science Master's degree from Oxford University. Anne-Marie says the path to inclusivity starts with recognising the barriers these young women still face in the first place. We must continue to promote a more inclusive environment for women within areas such as computer sciences, mathematics, and engineering so they aren't afraid of how they may be mistreated.

The gap between females and males in STEM is slowly decreasing as our society becomes more gender inclusive. A study showed that 45% of students majoring in a STEM field in 2020 were women, which increased from 40% in 2010, and again from 34% in 1994. It is estimated that females will outnumber males for the first time in 2022, with 55% of post-secondary students studying in a STEM field being female.

STEM careers are essential in our society that is revolving more and more around technology. As we adapt to a life with technology, we need capable people to help and influence this development. Women have proven to have the exact same potential as men, sometimes more. Our technology-advanced future is only possible with inclusivity.

How do we close the gender gap in STEM?

Influence females to follow their passions. Change cannot happen if we do not challenge the normality within the system.

Written by Tahlia Read.