Mapping Women's Emergence As Trailblazers In STEM Leadership

The STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—which have traditionally been dominated by male leaders, are undergoing significant transformation. The growing number of women in leadership roles across a wide range of occupations is one indicator of this shift. A key turning point in our attempts to diversify the workforce and achieve better gender balance is the rise of women leaders in STEM fields. 

It has historically been difficult for women to hold leadership positions due to systemic flaws and deeply ingrained cultural norms. This makes it more difficult for women to hold top management positions as many of them are disregarded or given less credit solely based on their gender.

According to the National Science Foundation's report on STEM Workforce and Education, about half of all bachelor's degrees (50%) and associate degrees (49%) in science and engineering were obtained by women, even with this level of education, women made up only approximately 35% of STEM jobs and often received lower pay than men.

Yet, despite these great challenges, women are still thriving for their unwavering commitment to scientific creativity and innovative thinking. The most exciting outcome of this growth in women's leadership has been the positive ripple effect. The percentage of women leaders is rising, which motivates the next generation. Young women are choosing to pursue jobs in science, engineering, math, and technology at an increasing rate because of the inspiration these trailblazers provide. This evolved representation not only challenges stereotypes and conventional norms but also opens doors for numerous more who dare to pursue big dreams.

Mapping Women's Emergence As Trailblazers In STEM Leadership

Trailblazers such as Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman in space, are a source of motivation for eras to come because of their groundbreaking achievements. In addition to advancing India's space program, Chawla's contributions to aeronautical engineering and space exploration touched off the aspirations of future astronauts everywhere.

Being the first female engineer at Infosys, Sudha Murthy's  career has paved the way for many women to assume leadership roles in the IT industry. Her philanthropy and social work within the healthcare and education sectors, which may not have a direct association with STEM areas but are of great importance for pushing forward science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Murthy's continued efforts are an important indicator of the inherent link between social improvement and STEM achievement.

Gagandeep Kang, a famous microbiologist and Fellow of The Royal Society (FRS), has made significant advances in the study of paediatric intestinal infections and contributed to the development of the rotavirus vaccine in India. Her selection as a fellow of the Royal Society recognises her leadership in progressing scientific knowledge and innovation, as well as her outstanding contributions to the field of microbiology.

These inspiring women's leadership, creativity, and perseverance serve as a testament to the increasing number of women who are having an impact on India's STEM fields.

Through various leadership initiatives, several organizations are also actively seeking to enhance women's leadership in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) areas. Through skill-building courses, mentorship programs, and networking events, these organizations support women in realising their leadership potential and overcoming the challenges associated with working in professions where men predominate. By providing funding for their professional development, these organisations promote a more inclusive working environment and support specific skills that are essential to the success of women in the fields of STEM areas.

Government initiatives such as Indian Women and Mathematics (IWM), which is supported by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and the National Board of Higher Mathematics (NBHM), and the Department of Science and Technology (DST)'s "Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN)" scheme both aim to increase the participation of women from all walks of life in the field of Science and Technology. The goal of these programs is to promote a more diverse and inclusive STEM community to achieve gender parity in all professions.

In conclusion, the increase in the proportion of women in STEM leadership can be attributed to individual as well as collective accomplishments. We will have an impact on the future when we work for inclusivity, empower the next generation, promote diversity, and emphasise the value of STEM for all.

Authored by Kiran Khatter, PhD, Associate Professor, School of Engineering and Technology, BML Munjal University. Views expressed by the author are their own