Are Women Underrepresented in the Fields of Science and Engineering?

1. Are Women Underrepresented in the Fields of Science and Engineering? LaurynKabrich

2. Research The how and why of women’s underrepresentation in these integral professions.

3. The Roots • In advanced ancient civilizations, women’s participation in science and engineering was accepted and respected. • By 1919, there had only been 139 female engineering students in U.S. history. • By 1947, a mere 0.3% of all U.S. engineers were women. • Reasons for this extreme underrepresentation included: • “Biological differences” • Sexism/stereotypes • Barriers to education

4. Underrepresentation Today • Only 27% of those with careers in STEM are female. • 13% female in engineering • 26% female in computer and mathematical sciences • 51% female in biological and medical sciences • Between 1993-2008, the proportion of women whose highest degree was in science or engineering increased from 31% to 38%. • The proportion of women with a career in science and engineering increased from only 21% to 27%.

5. Reasons for Underrepresentation • Stereotypes/Sexism • Lack of Interest • Lack of role models/guidance • Domestic responsibilities • Lack of confidence

6. Potential Solutions • Changes to cultural environment • Changes to working environment • Outreach programs for young girls and teens • Support programs for women at the university level

7. Product Volunteer Work at NCSU’s Imhotep Academy Interning at SPX-Transformer Division

8. Imhotep Academy • 21-year-old program dedicated to educating, empowering, and inspiring underrepresented populations in the STEM fields • Programs for middle school-aged and high school-aged students • Conducted at NC State University’s Science House on Centennial Campus

9. Volunteering at Imhotep Academy • Assisted with set-up and preparations for two sessions (June 17th, 19th, 21st & July 3rd) • 2 summer sessions • Investigating Renewable Energy Applications: June 24th-28th • Everyday Applications of Algebra in a City: July 8th-12th • 70+ hours spent volunteering

10. My Roles • Performed clerical work during camp preparations • Made copies and name badges • Put together students’ binders • Prepared materials for camp activities • 1st Session: Program Assistant • Helped with camp prep every morning • Took pictures for the newsletter • Assisted in science class • 2nd Session: Promoted to Teacher Assistant • Assisted in science class full-time • Chaperoned field trip • Taught mini-lesson on water quality

16. Interning Experience • July 30th, 9am-4:30 pm • Interned with Lauren Bridgers • Manufacturing Engineer for SPX-Transformer Division • Degree in Mechanical Engineering from ECU • Toured plant and learned about the processes and equipment • Ran errands • Prepared cards for tool boards • Attended meeting on OEE of Blast Booth

18. Mentor • Heba Abdel-Rahman • Senior Human Resources Generalist for SPX • Degree in Industrial Engineering from ECU • Provided support, advice, and guidance • Helped me with developing strategies to increase the girls’ engagement and confidence at Imhotep • Provided insight on what I will experience as a female engineering student in college • Arranged my interning opportunity

19. Challenges & Successes Challenges • Finding a mentor • Devoting 2+ weeks of my summer to Senior Project • Being viewed as professional due to my young age Successes • Making a positive difference in children's lives • Networking connections • Discovering a passion

20. What I Learned • The challenges that I will face, both in college and the workplace, as a female engineer • The resources available for females in STEM • How to write a formal research paper • My aptitude in working with children in an academic setting

21. Thank you for your time! Any Questions?