The Key To Solving The Science And Math Talent Shortage? Women

It’s long been known that women are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and math fields. But there are some steps both women and society can take to help mitigate this trend and balance out the future workforce.

A shortage of qualified, skilled workers in STEM fields already exists in the US, but key to improving this talent gap will be inspiring and encouraging more women to enter STEM fields, said Karen Purcell, founder, owner and president of an award-winning electrical engineering, design and consulting firm and author of the book Unlocking Your Brilliance: Smart Strategies for Women to Thrive in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. While women currently make up nearly half of the American workforce, only 23 percent of workers in STEM-related jobs are women. The first key to bucking this trend is overcoming the lack of exposure of women to STEM fields starting in middle school and high school, Purcell said. This can come in the form of science camps and math camps as well as encouragement from parents, teachers and guidance counselors about the opportunities and earnings potential in STEM fields.