In light of International Women’s Day, commemorated every March 8, I would like to join in celebrating the achievements of all women and their efforts to achieve full gender equality in the world. We must value diversity and inclusion, as well as the important role that women have played in the socio-economic success of companies in different sectors.

Our sector continues to show a deficiency in the participation of women in the industry. So much so, that according to a UNESCO report, in 2019 technology careers were still led by the male figure in 65% of students, that is, only 35% of those enrolled in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) careers were women. Undoubtedly, an underrepresentation is accentuated if we analyze the female presence in companies of the sector in all categories and professional fields and that reaches its extreme if we pay attention to leadership positions.

I am sure that this problem has affected us in terms of diversity, creativity, and innovation. So, knowing the benefits of having women in our industry, why is it so difficult for them to enter the STEM field? I share with you three of the main factors that I believe deter women from participating in the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics:

  • Gender stereotypes: Since preschool, girls’ mathematical and technological talents are often underestimated by instructors and parents, casting doubt on their abilities and the opportunity to exploit their skills in these areas. This has been maintained over the years, so the first challenge is to eradicate the stereotype about the abilities of human beings depending on their gender.
  • Shortage of female role models: Women have fewer inspirational role models than men in these fields, as they see few examples of female scientists and engineers in books, the media, and popular culture. The low visibility of women in STEM areas causes little interest on the part of girls in increasingly in-demand careers.
  • Pay gap: Women and men have nearly identical human capital coming out of college, but cultural beliefs that men are better suited for STEM professions lead to self-beliefs that affect pay.

According to Pew Research Center, the median salary for women in STEM professions is approximately 74% of the median salary for men, which deters many women from leaving their careers.

Being aware of this unfair talent gap, we have more opportunities than ever to encourage girls and women to pursue these types of jobs and educate themselves about the many career prospects available. Undoubtedly, educating, empowering, and providing opportunities will be key elements in driving women’s professional development and the industrial and scientific future.

by info@nakasawaresources.com