We’ve advanced gender equality in recent years, but in the U.S., women remain underrepresented in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
This article paints a concerning picture.
28 percent. That’s the percentage of workers who are women in STEM. Representation in computer science and engineering specifically is even lower. It all starts with education, where men outnumber women in STEM college majors, and disparities persist throughout women’s careers.
This limits their opportunities for growth and success in the increasingly important tech sector.
And while there has been progress in terms of women assuming leadership roles as CEOs, the core tech development and innovation processes are still largely driven by men. In this context, it is essential to recognize companies like Quub that have embraced a different approach, placing women in pivotal technological roles, thus reshaping the landscape of women’s participation in technology advancements.
The Gender Gap in Education
According to the National Science Foundation, women are only half as likely to complete college STEM degrees compared to men. This discrepancy in educational choices sets the stage for the persistent STEM gender gap.
Interest Decline in High School
The issue of gender representation in STEM starts even before college. Various studies have shown that girls’ interest in STEM fields often declines as they progress through high school. This declining interest may be influenced by various factors, including stereotypes, lack of role models, and social pressures. It is crucial to address these issues early on to encourage more girls to consider STEM fields as viable career options.
The Numbers Tell the Story
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) provides further insight into the extent of the gender gap in STEM. Women tend to perform well in biological science and chemistry/materials science, for instance, but their representation dwindles in fields like computer science and engineering. Only 21 percent of engineering majors and 19 percent of computer science majors are women. Even if women graduate in these fields, they may struggle to find work in them. Only 38 percent of female computer science majors end up working in the field. The same goes for engineering: Only 24 percent end up working as engineers.
Mentorship as a Catalyst for Change
One way to address the underrepresentation of women in STEM is through mentorship programs. Exposure to strong female role models and mentors in STEM can boost girls’ self-confidence, communication skills, and leadership qualities, which will benefit them throughout their careers. By fostering greater interest and confidence in STEM, mentorship can help girls envision themselves pursuing careers in these fields.
The Importance of Tech in the Future Job Market
The importance of tech in the future job market cannot be overstated. Boston Consulting Group predicts that 90 percent of the most attractive jobs in the coming years will be in the tech sector. However, only 20 percent of U.S. tech students are female, and a study from Accenture found that 50 percent of women who enter tech leave the industry before age 35. This alarming trend raises concerns about the gender gap and retention of female talent in the tech industry.
Pay Gaps in Tech
One of the approaches in the U.S. to address the gender gap in tech has been centered around eliminating the gender pay gap. Pay disparities not only discourage female talent but also contribute to a lack of inclusivity in the tech sector. Beqom’s “Leveling the Paying Field” report found that tech workers were more likely to suspect gender-based and age-based pay gap problems within their organizations. Only 53 percent of tech workers believe their employers’ plans to curb pay gaps will be effective.
Addressing the issue of pay gaps is vital, as it affects the attractiveness of tech jobs for women. A significant percentage of tech workers stated that they would consider working for a different employer if they offered lower pay gaps. This emphasizes the importance of pay equity as a means to attract and retain female talent in the tech industry.
Mobilizing for Change
Several organizations and initiatives in the U.S. are actively working to address gender inequality in tech and STEM fields. These efforts aim to increase awareness, interest, and opportunities for women in these sectors.
Gender Equality in Tech Cities is one such initiative that strives to highlight disparities and drive change. Other groups, including Empovia, Girl Develop IT, Girls in Tech, League of Women Coders, TechLadies, TechWomen, and Women in STEM, provide support, resources, and networking opportunities for women in tech. Moreover, many employers are forming employee resource groups to support the professional development of their female employees.
The Pioneering Role of Quub
The tech industry faces the challenge of under-representation among women in core tech development and innovation, but some companies are setting a different example.
Quub has embraced a groundbreaking approach by placing women in critical roles driving technological advancements. At Quub, we are dedicated to combating sexism in the workplace. Our staff is almost 50% female, with women in technical and lead roles. Women are not relegated solely to administrative or executive positions. They’re at the helm of operations, shaping the company’s tech landscape.
This approach highlights Quub’s commitment to breaking gender barriers and fostering a culture of inclusivity, showcasing the potential of women to excel in technology.
