The history of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is filled with remarkable pioneers who defied societal expectations and paved the way for future generations. Yet, despite significant progress, gender disparities in STEM fields persist. Women make up only 34% of the workforce in STEM and hold just 21% of engineering degrees. The gender gap is even more pronounced in some of the fastest-growing and highest-paid fields, such as engineering and environmental science.
If the future of innovation is to be truly inclusive and groundbreaking, more women must be encouraged to pursue STEM careers. But how do we break down the barriers that still exist? Looking back at the trailblazing women who defied the odds offers insight into the obstacles women continue to face and how to inspire the next generation to break the glass ceiling.
Trailblazers Who Paved the Way
Throughout history, women have made invaluable contributions to STEM despite facing gender-based discrimination and exclusion. Their resilience and achievements have shaped modern science, engineering, and technology.
Edith Clarke: The First Female Electrical Engineer
Long before computers as we know them existed, Edith Clarke was a human “computer”, performing complex mathematical calculations for engineering projects. Despite her brilliance, she struggled to find employment as an engineer because of her gender. However, in 1922, she became the first professionally employed female electrical engineer in the U.S. Her groundbreaking work in electrical power systems paved the way for more women to enter the field of engineering. In 2015, she was posthumously inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy.
Rachel Carson: The Voice of Environmental Science
Rachel Carson’s work in marine biology and environmental advocacy transformed the way the world views environmental responsibility. Her book, Silent Spring, exposed the dangers of pesticides and is credited with launching the modern environmental movement. Carson’s legacy is a powerful reminder that science isn’t just about discovery—it’s about responsibility. Without her work, today’s environmental policies and sustainability initiatives might look very different.
Emily Roebling: The Unsung Hero of the Brooklyn Bridge
In a time when women were rarely allowed to work in engineering, Emily Roebling quietly took charge of one of the most significant engineering projects in American history—the Brooklyn Bridge. After her husband, the project’s chief engineer, became ill, Emily took over his responsibilities, managing construction, overseeing finances, and even studying engineering principles to ensure the project’s completion. Despite her essential role, she remained largely unrecognized for decades. Today, her determination and intellect serve as a testament to what women are capable of achieving in engineering.
Mary Walton: Innovator in Noise Pollution Reduction
Mary Walton was an inventor and environmental activist who tackled one of the most overlooked issues of urban life—noise pollution. In 1881, she invented a system that significantly reduced the deafening sound of elevated trains in New York City, improving the quality of life for thousands. Though her contributions were largely ignored in her lifetime, her work laid the foundation for modern noise reduction technologies.
The Gender Gap: Challenges and Solutions
Despite the achievements of these pioneering women, gender disparities in STEM persist. Why? Because systemic biases, lack of representation, and cultural stereotypes continue to discourage women from pursuing careers in science and engineering.
Lack of Representation – Women remain underrepresented in STEM classrooms, workplaces, and leadership roles. Seeing more women in high-profile STEM careers encourages young girls to envision a future in these fields.
Cultural and Societal Expectations – Many young girls still grow up hearing that STEM is “too difficult” or “not for them.” We must challenge these stereotypes early on by integrating STEM education into early childhood learning.
Workplace Bias and Retention Issues – Even when women do enter STEM fields, they often face challenges like unequal pay, lack of mentorship, and fewer opportunities for promotion. Creating inclusive workplaces that value diversity is essential to retaining female talent.
Lack of Access to STEM Education – Not all girls have equal access to STEM education, particularly in underserved communities. Expanding scholarships, mentorship programs, and outreach initiatives help bridge this gap.
The Future of Women in STEM
The future of STEM must be one where gender does not dictate opportunity. While challenges remain, change is happening. Here’s how we continue pushing for progress:
Encourage Young Girls Early. STEM education should be introduced in elementary schools, allowing young girls to explore their interests before stereotypes take hold. Hands-on experiments, coding clubs, and robotics competitions spark curiosity.
Promote Female Role Models. Highlighting stories of women like Edith Clarke, Rachel Carson, and Emily Roebling inspire young girls to see themselves in STEM careers. Schools and media should showcase female scientists, engineers, and tech leaders.
Expand Access to STEM Programs. More scholarships, summer camps, and mentorship programs provide hands-on experience and help young women build confidence in their abilities.
Create Inclusive Workplaces. Companies need to prioritize diversity in hiring and provide mentorship opportunities that support women’s career growth. Implementing family-friendly policies, equal pay structures, and leadership training programs retain and empower women in STEM.
Break the Glass Ceiling – Encouraging more women to take leadership roles in STEM fields ensures that they have a seat at the table in shaping the future of innovation.
Final Thoughts: STEM Needs Women
The future of science, technology, engineering, and math depends on diverse perspectives and equal opportunities. The world’s most pressing challenges—climate change, medical advancements, space exploration, and AI development—require the best minds, regardless of gender.
We owe it to the pioneering women who paved the way to continue breaking barriers. By fostering inclusivity, encouraging young girls, and reshaping the culture of STEM, we ensure that the next generation of Edith Clarkes, Rachel Carsons, Emily Roeblings, and Mary Waltons don’t just make history—they change the future. STEM isn’t just for men. It’s for innovators, it’s for problem-solvers, it’s for everyone.
At Resource Options, we are committed to supporting diversity in STEM, ensuring women have access to the careers and opportunities they deserve. Whether you’re a STEM professional looking for your next role or a company seeking to build a more diverse team, we’re here to help!
About Resource Options Inc.
(ROI) is a full-service construction, design, environmental services staffing, and emergency response firm. We provide customized staffing solutions to clients servicing the built and natural environment. Recognized on five different occasions by Inc. Magazine as one of “America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies”, ROI was founded in 1998 by a group of experienced industry professionals. Our proven ability to deliver highly qualified candidates in a timely fashion has earned us the reputation as a true and lasting business partner with both clients and candidates. www.resourceoptions.com.
