By Buvana
Do you know the profound connections that the elements radium and polonium, the double helix structure of DNA and the greenhouse effect have in common? Yes, they were all pioneered by women! Throughout history, Women have been relentlessly contributing to STEM.
STEM, introduced in 2001, refers to the curriculum on the idea of educating students in 4 specific disciplines:
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
Despite its broadening influence, being a woman in STEM is not without its barriers.
Exploring the Gender Disparity in STEM
According to recent statistics, women constitute a mere 34% of the workforce in STEM fields. Moreover, men significantly outnumber women in the majority of STEM fields pursued at the college level. The domains of engineering and computer science, which are among the most lucrative STEM fields, witness a mere 21% and 19℅ female representation respectively. The disparity is striking, reflecting the persistent imbalance in gender representation within these critical sectors.
Breaking Barriers and Reshaping the Future
Even amidst daunting obstacles like societal expectations, stereotypes, and limited educational and employment opportunities, women are courageously shattering barriers in STEM. They defy outdated notions, leaving an indelible mark on innovation, discovery, and the progressive evolution of technology. In an era where the tenets of feminism and girl power need no introduction, women are entering the male-dominated fields and valiantly smashing old ideas that confine them.
Today's Trailblazers
It's crucial to pave the way for more incredible girls to join STEM fields! Let's seize this moment to celebrate today's remarkable women in STEM. Their innovation, dedication and groundbreaking work are not only inspiring change but also transforming the realm of STEM. Let's delve into the awe-inspiring achievements of a few of these women.
Dr. Fei-Fei Li
Dr. Fei-Fei Li is a pioneering computer scientist renowned for her groundbreaking work in artificial intelligence and machine learning. As a former director at the Stanford AI Lab and co-founder of AI4ALL, she's a leading advocate for diversity and ethical AI development in STEM. Her achievements and advocacy make her an inspiration for aspiring girls in tech!
Jennifer Anne Doudna
Jennifer Anne Doudna, an esteemed biochemist and UC Berkeley professor, revolutionised gene editing with CRISPR-Cas9, earning the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Collaborating with Mammoth Biosciences, she led the creation of an affordable CRISPR-based COVID-19 test, a crucial advancement in fighting the pandemic. Her pioneering work underscores the influential role of women in STEM.
Mary Jackson
Mary Jackson, a trailblazing mathematician and aerospace engineer at NASA, made history as the agency's first Black female engineer. Her groundbreaking contributions to aerospace research and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion remain a powerful inspiration for women in STEM. Mary's legacy stands as a symbol of empowerment, showcasing that dedication and talent transcend barriers, fostering scientific excellence irrespective of gender or race.
Conclusion
These amazing women are our role models, yet there's work ahead to make STEM more inviting for girls. When we picture a scientist, the usual image is a male with disheveled hair and old glasses. But let's paint a different scene: envision scientists as women too, breaking norms, and adding diversity to STEM. Together, let's empower and embrace women in STEM, shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
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