The Power of Role Models: Inspiring Girls in STEM

By Courtenay Carr Heuer, Executive Director, Scientific Adventures for Girls 

In the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), representation matters. For young girls, especially those from underrepresented communities, seeing women who look like them succeeding in STEM careers can be transformative. At Scientific Adventures for Girls (SAfG), we've witnessed firsthand the profound impact that role models can have on shaping the future of girls in STEM.

The Challenge

Despite recent trends and growing demand for diversity in STEM fields, women—especially women of color—remain alarmingly underrepresented in these lucrative careers. The statistics paint a stark picture:

  • Women make up only about 25% of the workforce in computing and engineering.

  • Latina, Black, and Indigenous women account for less than 10% of the STEM workforce.

  • By fourth grade, one-third of girls have already lost interest in science.

These numbers underscore the urgent need for early intervention and positive role models in STEM education.

The Power of Representation

Our experience at SAfG has shown that introducing girls to professional female STEM role models can significantly impact their perceptions and aspirations. As Shaunti Luce, a Senior Innovation & Technical Manager at Clif Bar and SAfG Role Model, notes:

"I think it's really good for the girls to interact with women in all different types and stages of STEM careers... Having never coded before, I think it was good for the girls to see that they don't need to know how to do everything right away or even very well and that it's ok to ask for help."

This sentiment is echoed by Ana Valencia, an Engineer at Turner Construction Company and SAfG Chairwoman of the Board and SAfG Role Model, who shared: "I enjoyed seeing girls who look like me and being able to relate to them just by sharing my story. I didn't hear any girls saying STEM was boy's work."

The Impact

Our Role Model program is making a difference. In our most recent survey:

  • 80% of girls found it exciting to meet women with jobs that use math, technology, and help with climate change.

  • 76% of girls reported knowing adults they can talk to about their interests in science and engineering.

  • 69% of girls said they know they can be a scientist one day if they want to.

These numbers demonstrate the power of representation in building confidence and interest in STEM among young girls.

A Ripple Efect

The impact of role models extends beyond the classroom. As one parent of an SAfG graduate shared:

"I think SAfG really showed my daughter she has the ability and power to be who she wants, and to stand out in spaces where people don't look like her."

This confidence and sense of belonging are crucial for girls as they navigate their educational and career paths in STEM fields.

Join Us in Making a Difference

The benefits of engaging girls in STEM through role model interactions are clear and long-lasting. But we need your help to continue and expand this vital work. Whether you're a woman working in a STEM field, a company looking to support diversity in STEM, or simply someone passionate about empowering the next generation of innovators, there's a place for you in our mission.

Get involved today by volunteering as a role model, supporting our programs, or spreading the word about the importance of representation in STEM. Together, we can inspire more girls to see themselves as the scientists, engineers, and tech leaders of tomorrow.

Visit our website or contact us at admin@scientificadventures.org to learn more about how you can make a difference in a young girl's STEM journey. Let's change the face of science, one role model at a time.

Giselle Escajeda