Every year since 2015, February 11 has served as a powerful global reminder of the achievements of women and girls in science, as well as the challenges they continue to face due to gender stereotypes.  

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is more than a celebration – it’s an opportunity to reflect on how we can actively contribute to breaking down barriers and creating meaningful change.   

As hiring managers, business owners, and organizational leaders, we can play a critical role in shaping a more equitable future for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). And women in STEM careers also have solid opportunities to advance your success, career path, and professional contributions.  

This article shares insights and ideas to help us collectively move the needle!  

Why this day matters to leaders  

Science and innovation thrive when everyone is included, yet barriers have historically limited women’s participation in STEM fields. Today, the 10th anniversary of this day of recognition, is our chance to:   

• Recognize achievements: Honor the groundbreaking contributions of women in science, technology, and engineering.  

• Inspire the future: Serve as role models and create environments where young girls can envision themselves thriving in STEM careers.  

• Address inequities: Tackle persistent gender gaps in hiring, leadership, and education.  

How leadership can empower women in STEM   

Organization leaders have the power and unique decision-making opportunities to foster inclusivity and gender equality. Here are ways your organization can contribute to empowering women in STEM:   

1. Reimagine your hiring practices 

• Use inclusive language in job postings to attract diverse talent.  

• Emphasize diversity initiatives and professional development opportunities in your recruitment materials.  

• Partner with organizations or networks that focus on advancing women in STEM.  

2. Invest in mentorship and development 

• Establish mentorship programs that connect senior employees with women in STEM roles.  

• Provide access to leadership training and growth opportunities to help women advance in their careers.  

• Encourage participation in programs or networks to continue engaging throughout the year and for the next generation of professionals.  

3. Build an inclusive workplace culture 

• Cultivate an environment where women feel seen, heard, and supported.  

• Actively celebrate the contributions of women on your team through recognition programs.  

• Foster a culture of respect and flexibility within the workplace by encouraging manageable workloads, clear communication of expectations, and support for team members to effectively balance their professional and personal commitments.  

4. Commit to pay equity 

• Conduct regular audits to ensure salaries are equitable across gender lines.  

• Build transparency into your compensation and promotion processes.  

5. Support role models 

• Highlight and celebrate the achievements of women in STEM leadership roles within your organization.  

• Share stories of successful women on your team to inspire others and demonstrate what’s possible.  

How hiring managers can drive change   

As hiring managers, your approach to talent recruitment and team building sets the tone for inclusivity. Small changes in how you attract, hire, and onboard candidates can make a significant impact:   

• Proactively seek talent: Ensure that women are represented in your candidate pipelines for STEM roles.  

• Emphasize values: During interviews, make it clear that diversity and inclusivity are core organizational values.  

• Create paths for growth and advancement: Make it a priority to discuss career development opportunities with candidates, new hires, and existing employees.  

How STEM candidates can empower themselves to succeed   

While leaders and organizations work to create change, candidates also have a role to play in your own success. Women working in or pursuing STEM careers can take steps to maximize your opportunities:   

• Highlight your strengths: During the job interview and hiring process, showcase your technical expertise and transferable skills, such as problem-solving and collaboration.  

• Network strategically: Join STEM-focused organizations, attend industry events, and connect with mentors and role models who can provide guidance and opportunities for greater representation of women in STEM careers and leadership positions.  

• Ask about inclusivity: In job interviews, inquire about the potential employer’s diversity initiatives, career development programs, and the organization’s commitment to equity.  

• Leverage a talent recruiter’s expertise: Partner with an experienced and reputable talent recruiter who can connect you with inclusive organizations and help you navigate compensation negotiations when you are offered a job.  

Explore more and get involved!  

By exploring more resources and references, leaders, candidates, and organizations can deepen your understanding of gender equity in STEM and take actionable steps to support women and girls in science. Here are some trusted references and resources:   

Articles and Reports   

• UNESCO Institute for Statistics – Women in Science: Comprehensive global data and analysis on the representation of women in STEM fields   

• United Nations International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Learn more about the significance of this day and ongoing initiatives to support women in STEM. 

• National Science Foundation (NSF) – Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities in Science and Engineering: Biannual statistics and trends highlighting the representation of women in STEM careers 

Organizations and Programs   

• Girls Who Code: A nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology by providing coding opportunities for girls 

• Society of Women Engineers (SWE): A global organization supporting women in engineering and technology 

• She Is a Scientist: A community-driven initiative to support and mentor women in STEM  

• AnitaB.org: An organization focused on increasing the representation of women in tech and computing  

STEM Advocacy and Equity Resources   

• Institute of Physics – Improving Gender Balance: Insights into creating gender-inclusive environments in STEM education and workplaces 

• American Association of University Women (AAUW) – The STEM Gap: Advocacy and educational resources to advance gender equity in STEM   

Let’s move forward together!  

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science challenges us all to reflect on our roles in creating a more equitable and inclusive future. It is both a responsibility and privilege to make intentional choices, whether revisiting hiring practices, supporting mentorship programs, or fostering a culture of inclusivity to eliminate disparities and open doors for women and girls in science.  

Together, we can create a future in which innovation thrives because every voice can be heard and where gifted individuals can make life- and industry-changing contributions. This kind of empowerment benefits every stakeholder and helps organizations create sustainable development goals in our science, engineering, and technology communities! 

Find the best talent and job opportunities  

Goodwin Recruiting, a Forbes Best Recruitment Company, specializes in numerous industries that require top-tier talent for middle management to senior and executive roles in science, technology, and engineering. We also offer workplace resources, including A Guide to Equity, which helps organizations build dynamic teams that are diverse, fair, and built for ongoing success.  

Get in touch with me if you’re looking for exceptional, right-fit talent for your team. Or if you’re a professional planning a career move, let me connect you with leading employers looking for your skills and expertise. I am a senior recruiting partner with Goodwin Recruiting and look forward to assisting in your vital talent or job search.