Unpacking the STEM Gap

As we approach International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11), we figured it would be appropriate to address the elephant–or in this case, gap– in the field of STEM. Did you know that 74% of girls in middle school express an interest in in math, science, or engineering, but only 0.4% pursue a STEM major (specifically computer science) in college? On the other hand, men make up 73% of all STEM workers!

The lack of representation in STEM has us scratching our heads thinking, “But, why? STEM is for everyone!” Lack of representation and diversification has often been an issue in the field, leading to a limited number of women and BIPOC individuals pursuing careers in science, tech, engineering, or math. And more often than not, young people from communities underrepresented in STEM are unaware of the plethora of career opportunities available to them because they don’t “see” themselves represented in the field.

Let’s say it again: STEM is for everyone. If you’re passionate about contributing to world-changing work and want to work in STEM, then you should be able to pursue a STEM career. Let’s work together to close the STEM gap today!

So, what exactly is the STEM gap? Great question! The STEM gap is the discrepancy in the representation of women and BIPOC individuals in the field of STEM when compared to men. For years, STEM has been predominantly seen as a man’s field. Men, specifically white men, have had their work and knowledge prioritized while minimizing the achievements and contributions of women and BIPOC individuals in STEM.

Women makeup nearly half of the workforce in the United States but only account for 28% of STEM workers. 8% of STEM workers are Hispanic, 9% Black, and only 3% Native American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander. And while STEM is one of the fastest-growing fields in the world, it’s clear there is still a lot of work to be done when it comes to equal representation.

The STEM gap is perpetuated for a myriad of reasons, but we believe it boils down to three main reasons:

1. Gender stereotypes: The notion that men are better at math and science than women (which, spoiler alert, there is no evidence to support this claim)!
2. Lack of role models: You can’t be what you don’t see! With fewer role models, fewer women and BIPOC individuals are going to feel empowered to enter STEM.
3. Unaware of opportunities: Many young people are unaware of the vast careers or paths they can pursue in STEM. STEM goes beyond just lab coats and math equations–STEM includes things like coding, architecture, and even roller coaster engineering!

So, how do we help close the STEM gap? First and foremost, let’s celebrate those that have made significant contributions to STEM. Despite being underrepresented, many women and BIPOC individuals have made AH-MAZING contributions, paving the way for others who maybe are thinking “Is STEM right for me?” Learn about a few of our favorite trailblazers who didn't let any stereotypes or perceived perceptions stop them from changing the world!

• Mary Jackson: NASA’s first African-American female engineer. Her love of science and her desire to make a difference in the world led her to do just that.
• Dr. Ellen Ochoa: the first Latina astronaut to explore space!
• Virginia Holsinger: a food scientist whose research was significant in the dairy industry and helped to address food security issues.
• Alan Emtage: a technologist who invented ARCHIE, the first internet search engine (you can thank him for being able to search the world wide web)!

DoSomething aims to fuel young people to do something about the causes they care most about–including to help close the STEM gap. We all know that the more diverse the field, the more innovative our creations! Check out some of our suggestions for ways that you can begin working to close the gap today:

• Take our STEM Works For Me quiz. DoSomething has partnered with 3M to help diversify the STEM field. Our quiz will share various STEM careers with you–all based on your interests and passions. A friendly reminder that anyone can have a career in STEM.
• Encourage your teachers to highlight women and BIPOC individuals in STEM. If you’re looking for a place to start, check out The Untold History of Women in Science and Technology.
• Follow or engage with various organizations dedicated to diversifying STEM and educating young people on various topics of the field like Girls Who Code, IF/THEN, Black Girls Code, NACME, and Microsoft DigiGirlz.

Just a friendly reminder that representation matters. Let’s celebrate our differences and unique perspectives and bring them to the field of STEM. Be your own STEM superhero and help close the gap today!