Encourage our girls to consider STEM

Today is International Day of Women and Girls in Science and it's a topic that’s close to my heart, for obvious reasons.  

Generating more diversity in STEM industries (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is tough. Currently when new opportunities are created in this sector, women take up only one, while men assume five. Traditionally it’s a sector that has proved more appealing to men, and resetting that balance is a challenge that requires both commitment and creativity.  

There are boundless examples to celebrate, from Dr Mona Kab Omir, who helped create the 15 minute COVID test, to British mathematician, Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, who has made it her life’s work to build a more diverse and balanced science and tech community. The more we can profile incredible women like these, the more young women we will inspire to follow suit.  

But this is only one part of the solution and we need to go further if we want to turn the tables for good. A Microsoft study found that one of the main barriers for girls pursuing careers in STEM is a lack of role models and support, as well as a general misperception of what a career would look like.  

This is where mentoring can play a role. I recently shared a post outlining my views on how mentoring can help save a lost generation. I believe it can also inspire a generation of girls to consider a career in STEM. For young women, having a mentor who helps them to see these types of careers as appealing and exciting can make the world of difference.  

As a woman working in the technology sector, I feel duty-bound to help my mentees recognise that the work of women in STEM is equally as important as that of men. With more young people unemployed than ever before, we have an opportunity to use mentorship to support and direct them into careers within which they will thrive.  

I encourage my fellow mentors to champion STEM and share the benefits of a career in these industries, which include:  

●     Higher than average salary - STEM graduates can earn up to 20% more than their peers

●     Job availability - by 2023, STEM sectors are expected to account for 28% of job openings. That’s equivalent to just over 2.8 million jobs!

●     Challenge and excitement - STEM is at the coalface of innovation

My daughter will be twelve this year and, while I work hard to instill in her a belief that there is no door that is closed to her, I want the world to tell her the same. Industry networking groups like Women in Telecoms and Technology are already doing so much to provide guidance and mentoring for young people. In addition, I think all working-age adults have an individual role to play in supporting the next generation into the world of work, and STEM is a great suggestion to add to the agenda.