How women are shaping the future of STEM: Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science  takes place each year on 11th February. It is a global initiative aimed at celebrating the contributions of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Established by the United Nations in 2015, this day serves to inspire action towards achieving gender equality, highlight the invaluable role women play in driving innovation, and showcase the positive impact of diverse perspectives in solving global challenges.

 

Despite making up nearly half the world’s population, women are still significantly underrepresented in STEM fields. Many women and girls in science face societal biases, structural inequalities, and limited access to opportunities, making it difficult to enter and advance in these fields. 

 

Achieving gender equality in STEM is essential for progress. Diverse perspectives lead to more innovative solutions, better decision-making, and more inclusive advancements that benefit all of humanity. 

 

 

The Gender and Wage Gap in STEM 

 

Women in STEM make up 29.2% of the workforce across 146 nations, according to ABB. Although there has been progress, this statistic highlights the significant underrepresentation of women in critical fields like artificial intelligence and engineering, where women make up less than 20% of professionals.

 

Furthermore, the gender pay gap persists, studies show women in STEM earn, on average, 20% less than their male counterparts, even when education and experience are accounted for.

 

 

Voices from the SciPro Team

 

We spoke with Imogen Simpkin, Vice President of DEI Client Commercial Strategy and Development at LHi Group, who shared her thoughts on achieving gender equality in STEM. Reflecting on her experience in the industry, she noted the progress made in attracting diverse talent.

“Since I started, there has been such an improvement regarding the attraction of diverse talent. Whilst it is not 50/50 yet, there has been a clear improvement,” she shared. “It is great to see clients also looking to consider the attraction and retention of talent.”

Looking ahead, Imogen emphasised the importance of long-term investment in diversity and inclusion. “Creating true diversity of thought across organisations and investment in the development of all and each employee through guidance and mentorship will be a true testament for the future of the STEM industry,” she stated. 

 

 

Progress Made Toward Equality

 

Over the years, several global initiatives have made significant strides in promoting gender equality in STEM:

 

• Interntational Network of Women Engineers and Scientists (INWES): Amplifies the voices of women in STEM globally through mentorship, networking opportunities, and policy advocacy.
• WISE (Women in Science and Engineering - UK): Increases female participation in STEM fields through campaigns like People Like Me, which inspires young girls by showcasing relatable role models and careers.
• LHi and SciPro foster diversity through strategic partnerships, including sponsoring the OUTbio Seattle and Women in Bio Seattle Career Expo in January to support women and underrepresented professionals in life sciences. They also drive change by hosting career networking events, providing essential career resources, and promoting long-term industry diversity.

 

While progress is evident, there is still much to achieve. Continued collaboration and sustained commitment are essential to fully empower women and girls in science, ensuring that future generations benefit from a more inclusive and innovative STEM landscape. 

 

 

Forward, Together 

 

Here at SciPro, we believe that it is important to empower the next generation to dream without limits and ensure that everyone has equal opportunities to contribute. Let’s continue to support, inspire, and empower women and girls to break barriers and shape a future where every voice is heard and valued.