Just a couple of decades ago, it was relatively unheard of for women to be entering the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) industries without substantial backing from male colleagues. At the very least, women who took on these types of careers had to be “good enough” to even be considered for recognition.
According to a report published by the U.S. Department of Commerce, women make up around 48 percent of the American workforce, yet they hold only 24 percent of the available STEM jobs. Women who do make it into careers in this industry also statistically make less money than their male counterparts. Today, however, things are changing in the STEM markets due to demands for skilled professionals – therefore women are taking the STEM world by storm.
Why is this shift to more women in STEM careers good for your business?
Increasing diversity in the workforce can improve any business, and encouraging the hiring of more females into STEM jobs is a start. While women currently make up a disproportionate number of jobs in STEM careers, they are starting to accept positions of leadership in these roles. Case in point – when the recent Forbes list of Top 10 Powerful Women was published this year, all but one of these featured female leaders were in STEM industries.
In just a generation, there will be many more females entering STEM programs at the college level, so the time is now to start creating career opportunities for them. Under guidance from President Obama, the White House Council on Women and Girls has been collaborating with Office of Science and Technology Policy to increase the participation of women and girls in STEM learning paths. If companies hope to remain competitive, they must do what it takes to attract this talent in the next 10 years.
Women are adding much to STEM careers now and in the future. They are natural leaders, they are good at what they do, and they are eager to prove their worth. If you are seeking talented females to add to your STEM business, get in contact with Venteon Technical Staffing today, as we have some fantastic candidates to introduce you to!