Dr Bianca Capra’s Post

Happy International Day of Women and Girls in STEM! Today, we celebrate the brilliant minds breaking barriers and shaping the future in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Established by the United Nations, this day recognises the critical role women and girls play in STEM fields, historically underrepresented but undeniably essential. Let's highlight the achievements, contributions, and resilience of women in STEM throughout history. From Ada Lovelace, the world's first computer programmer, to today's innovators pushing the boundaries, women continue to redefine what's possible. This day serves as a reminder to break stereotypes, foster inclusion, and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders. As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in STEM, let's amplify their voices, recognise their accomplishments, and work towards a future where everyone has equal opportunities to contribute to the advancements of science and technology. #WomenInSTEM #GirlsInSTEM #STEMTrailblazers #BreakingBarriers #InnovationForAll

In recent times, I have had numerous interactions with women in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), where I have had the opportunity to discuss strategies to overcome the challenges posed by the patriarchal systems we navigate in our professional lives. These conversations have highlighted the resilience and determination needed for women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields. I strongly believe that there are certain strategies a woman needs to develop to climb up the corporate ladder and to overcome these barriers and biases. To overcome these, women must first develop self-awareness—knowing their strengths, weaknesses, and values to navigate challenges with confidence. Building a strong network of mentors and allies, both male and female, offers crucial support, guidance, and opportunities. Continuous education and skill development keep women competitive and increase their authority in STEM fields. Effective communication skills are also critical, enabling women to assert their views and negotiate confidently. Finally, fostering resilience is essential to persist in the face of slow systemic change. By leveraging self-awareness, networking, education, communication, and resilience, women in STEM can break barriers and create meaningful impact despite the patriarchal systems that persist.

We may be a day late in recognizing International Day of Women & Girls in Science, but we still honor the pioneering women who have shattered barriers, defied stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations of female scientists. From Mae Jemison, who became the first Black woman to travel in space when she flew aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992, to Frances Arnold, an American chemical engineer and Nobel laureate in Chemistry (2018) for her pioneering work on the directed evolution of enzymes, leading to the development of more environmentally friendly methods for chemical synthesis and pharmaceutical production. We also acknowledge all the women and girls who have made and are making significant contributions in STEM fields. Despite the progress made, gender disparities still persist in STEM fields, depriving the scientific community of diverse perspectives and talent, and perpetuating inequalities in society at large. These are not new concepts to how we get more girls and women into the field: ❇️ To encourage women and girls in science, we need to create an inclusive environment and offer interactive initiatives and hands-on learning from a young age. ❇️ Mentorship and role models are crucial for building confidence and navigating challenges in STEM fields. ❇️ Educate educators, parents, and peers about the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered to pursue their interests and talents in STEM. ❇️ Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM fields by implementing policies and initiatives such as flexible work arrangements, family-friendly policies, and zero-tolerance policies for harassment and discrimination. ❇️ Provide access to resources, opportunities, and networks that facilitate professional development, career advancement, and work-life balance for women in STEM. ❇️ Promote representation and visibility of women in STEM fields through media, outreach, and public engagement efforts to challenge stereotypes and broaden perceptions. Women and Girls in Science Leadership will usher a new era of Sustainability, and we're so here for it! #WomenLeadership #ScienceSociety #ScienceDiplomacy #WomenInScience #GirlsInScience #EquityInScience

Women just aren't "naturally" suited for STEM fields. We've all heard these whispers so many times. It's a pervasive myth, holding brilliant minds back from solving the world's most pressing challenges. Here's the truth: STEM isn't about inherent ability, It's about cultivating passion and nurturing talent. The "natural" argument ignores the reality We lack a level playing field. Societal expectations and unconscious bias often steer girls away from STEM. It's time to dismantle these barriers and empower a new generation. 1. Challenge the stereotype → Let's champion female role models in STEM → Dismantle the "natural" aptitude myth. 2. Focus on early engagement → Spark curiosity in young girls with engaging STEM programs, → Fostering a love of exploration and discovery. 3. Celebrate diversity of thought → Different perspectives lead to groundbreaking ideas. → Inclusive workplaces that value all voices are crucial for innovation. → By shattering this myth and fostering a culture of inclusivity, → We will unlock the full potential of STEM. Let's rewrite the story. Who's with me? #WomenInSTEM

What’s the best way to inspire young people to consider taking STEM classes — or even pursuing a STEM career? #AbbottProud that our Women in STEM employee network created a children’s book with hopes of doing just that. Download book here.

What’s the best way to inspire young people to consider taking STEM classes — or even pursuing a STEM career? #AbbottProud that our Women in STEM employee network created a children’s book with hopes of doing just that. Download book here.

I'm leaving the last word in this week's theme of outstanding women in masculine-dominated arenas to Cathy Foley, Australia's Chief Scientist, who reminds us in her 2021 Helen Williams Oration why this fight to have women's voices represented — in science, in tech, in engineering, in maths — is so important. She said: "I know ... that I am a role model, whether I like it or not, and just like all of the workplace leaders in the audience, our responsibility is to influence for change. "The latest STEM Equity Monitor shows that more than a third of men in tertiary education are studying STEM qualifications; areas related to maths, or the sciences or engineering – excluding health. But for women, the figure is only 9 per cent. "That is, more than 90 per cent of women at university or TAFE are studying for qualifications not related to STEM. "When your country is building its future on high-tech STEM-related industries, that’s a problem. We need more women in engineering, and also in mathematics, IT and the physical sciences. "Where women are entering the STEM fields, it’s overwhelmingly in the caring professions such as medical, environmental and veterinary science. That’s great and I certainly don’t want to discourage it. I know they are choosing careers where they feel they can make a difference, but I want them to know that they can absolutely make a difference working in the physical sciences, tackling complex issues in areas such as climate, energy and water." We've spent this week shining light on the women leaders who have chosen careers of impact and contribution in STEM fields, in finance and economics, in transport and infrastructure, and who, despite their number and their accomplishments, are still fighting to be seen, heard and included at the decision-making tables. Next week we're moving to another arena in which women's contributions are underrated and undervalued: the arts, creativity and innovation. Can't wait to hear your suggestions for women who deserve the spotlight as well as the board and executive opportunities! Karyn x #womeninleadership #executivewomen #publicservice #equity #glassceiling #glasscliff #STEMM #womeninscience #womenineconomics --------- 👋 I'm Karyn Brinkley, trusted coach and confidante of executive women with purpose and commitment who sense there are opportunities for more, for better, for bigger, if only they had the bandwidth and energy to see them. What will I do for you? As your confidante I listen closely and supportively and safely. As your coach, I remind you who you are and what you care about, and help you get your life back. I help you feel better. If you'd love to feel better, let's stay connected! 📨 Send me a DM to arrange a zoom call 🤝 Connect with me today 💡 Follow me for daily insights

What’s the best way to inspire young people to consider taking STEM classes — or even pursuing a STEM career? #AbbottProud that our Women in STEM employee network created a children’s book with hopes of doing just that. Download book here.

♀ How do we encourage more girls and women to get educated and then work in technology and STEM disciplines? ♀ How do we support them, encourage them, make room for them, to stay in industry for the long haul? ♀ How do we ensure that we enable high-potential, willing women to develop their careers all the way to the top so that accelerated change can occur? Last night I attended the ACS (Australian Computer Society) Conversation Circles (WA) Supporting Women in Tech Event at the WA State Library. ACS are conducting a national roadshow to engage with their female members and understand the challenges, obstacles, what-ifs, opportunities and aspirations of the fabulous women already working in technology and broader STEM affiliated positions. As with any issue of inequality, systemic biases (both individual and sociocultural) have a huge impact on the opportunity for change, and there are many factors which continue to feed the narrative that creates our reality: 📉 Only 15% of STEM-qualified jobs in Australia are held by women, and; 📊 At 2022, the gap between women's and men's pay in STEM industries in Australia was $27,012, or 17%. Given that it's estimated that STEM professionals will make up 75% of the Australian workforce by 2025, the problem of underrepresentation by women in technology and STEM roles is certainly worse that I thought. 🧙♂️ If you had a magic wand, what is the #1 thing you would do to shift the dial here? Holly H. Sharmini Wainwright Emma Hewett Gemma McDonald Lia Bormolini Deyana Khosravi Kyle Burnett Brodie McDougall Chris Greenwood Daniel Gonzalez

Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science! I come to this day with mixed feelings. On one hand, I look toward the future with a heart full of joy and gratitude for the countless women across the world who are valiantly advocating for greater representation, greater opportunity, greater support and greater celebration of women in STEM. But at the same time, I look around me with a mind swirling with questions, concerns, worries and fears about whether we will be able to achieve these things. It is essential that even as we find joy in the progress we have made, we must remain vigilant in our fight to dismantle the barriers to women’s advancement in STEM. I’d like to take this day, then, as a call to action. To all women who dream of a career in STEM: this is the first day of the rest of our lives. Are we going to spend it in silence, allowing these stereotypes to persist, injustices to reign, and progress to stagnate? Or will we rise up to take our place on the forefront of innovation, to show that we DO belong in STEM, and our ideas and inventions are equally essential to the future of our society? I’d like to start by raising up the stories of women trailblazers in the past and the present who have made their mark in STEM. Please, share in the comments the name of a woman in STEM whom you believe deserves recognition on this day of celebration and contemplation. 💖 Association for Women in Science