Despite the numerous opportunities available, getting women into STEM careers and leadership roles remains a challenge in 2024. Women are underrepresented in STEM fields, with only 35% of females continuing to study STEM subjects after GCSEs and the number decreasing to 25% at the university level. This underrepresentation is even more pronounced in leadership positions and at the board level.
Research has shown that companies with executive boards that are one-third female are ten times more profitable, on average, than companies with all-male boards. This highlights the importance of encouraging and supporting women in STEM fields to not only enter these careers but also to advance to leadership positions.
The need for diversity and inclusion in STEM is clear, and efforts must be made to close the gender gap in these sectors. The underrepresentation of women in STEM fields is a significant problem that needs urgent attention from policymakers, educators, and industry leaders. By promoting gender equality in STEM, we can unlock a wealth of untapped talent and drive innovation forward.