#EllaEsSTEM: Challenges, Progress, and the Path to Inclusion
The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) sector has historically been dominated by men, but in recent years, More and more women have managed to break into these fields and excel in them. Despite the progress made, barriers such as gender stereotypes, a lack of female role models, and unwelcoming environments still persist, limiting women’s participation in these fields. To change this reality, it is essential to promote, through education, an equitable and inspiring vision that encourages more girls and young women to explore and pursue careers in STEM.
As part of the International Women's Day, Structuralia is joining this cause with the # campaignSheIsSTEM, an initiative that aims to raise awareness of Leading women in the sector, as highlighted through interviews with alumnae and faculty members who have left their mark on science, technology, and engineering. Their stories not only inspire future generations but also demonstrate that women play a crucial role in transforming the world through innovation and knowledge.
This time, we spoke with Andrea Manríquez, Petroleum Engineer with more than 14 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. He holds two master's degrees in Reservoir Characterization and Development and in Engineering and Oil and Gas Business, currently serves as Gas Transportation Engineer at Andes Operaciones y Servicios S.A. / Gas Andes, a binational company with operations in Chile and Argentina.
Throughout his career, he has led key initiatives in planning, production, and operational logistics, optimizing resources and improving efficiency in the energy industry.
In this interview, Andrea shares her perspective on How can we encourage more women to take an interest in STEM?, the importance of having role models and mentors, and the challenges young women still face in these fields. She also discusses the initiatives that have been successful in promoting gender equality in education and industry.
What aspects of education can be improved to encourage more women to choose STEM?
«To encourage more women to pursue STEM careers, it is essential challenge, starting in early childhood education, the idea that these fields are only for men or too difficult. It's key breaking gender stereotypes, provide role models, and foster an inclusive environment that motivates girls to explore these fields. Initiatives such as career guidance programs, visits to science museums, educational games at home, and greater visibility in STEM Olympiads and competitions are essential for sparking their interest and strengthening their commitment to these fields.»
What strategies can help spark an interest in science and technology from an early age?
«In my experience, fostering an interest in science and technology from an early age requires offering interactive and hands-on experiences that foster curiosity. Visiting museums that explore all STEM disciplines is an excellent way to introduce these topics in a fun way. In addition, playing math games at home and engaging in science-related activities helps maintain children’s interest in these areas. Visits to laboratories and universities, as well as conducting experiments, allow children to discover firsthand how the scientific process works.»
How important is access to role models and mentors in STEM?
«The Access to role models and mentors in STEM is essential for inspiring and motivating more women »to follow this path, as they provide a role model and help build confidence in their own abilities. In addition, they offer a crucial support network for overcoming barriers and challenges in their training and professional development."
What are the main challenges young women face when they begin their STEM education?
«The biases and stereotypes about women's abilities in STEM fields are one of the main challenges young women face, as they can negatively affect their self-confidence and motivation. This obstacle is exacerbated by impostor syndrome, a trust gap that leads young women to feel «inadequate» despite their achievements. They also often face unwelcoming environments or discriminatory attitudes, which hinder their integration and development in these fields.»
What educational initiatives have been effective in increasing the number of women in STEM?
«Scholarships and Mentoring Programs Specifically for Women in STEM have been instrumental in providing the necessary support, encouraging more young people to pursue careers in science and technology. Support Networks and Communities Among women scientists and engineers, outreach programs in schools have played a crucial role in breaking down stereotypes and encouraging girls to take an interest in science and technology. Other effective initiatives include science competitions and fairs, visits to laboratories and universities, and the inclusion of female role models »in educational content, which has shown young women that it is possible to excel in these fields."
Do you think STEM education is adapting to current changes and needs?
«STEM education has evolved to adapt to current changes, incorporating a greater focus on digital skills, programming, and dynamic methodologies such as project-based learning. However, still faces challenges in terms of inclusion and gender equity, since Gaps in women's representation persist. »In addition, it is necessary to strengthen the development of soft skills and leadership, ensuring that professionals have the tools they need for communication, management, and decision-making in collaborative and innovative environments."
How can universities and training centers promote more inclusive environments?
«Universities and training centers can promote more inclusive environments" by implementing gender equity policies, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. Diversity training for teachers and students It is key to eliminating bias and fostering a more inclusive culture. »In addition, creating safe spaces and support networks for women in STEM helps them stay in these fields and advance in them."
What impact has technology had on the way STEM is taught today?
«Technology has revolutionized STEM education through online courses, simulations, virtual reality, and digital labs that facilitate learning. In addition, the artificial intelligence »It allows for personalized education, and promoting programming from an early age fosters interest in technological disciplines."
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start pursuing a career in STEM?
«If you want to pursue a career in STEM, Don't let stereotypes intimidate you—trust in your abilities. Get ready, study, and take advantage of free resources and online courses, Look for a support group to guide you along the way. Perseverance is key, »since learning in these areas is an ongoing process and there will always be new opportunities for growth."
The path toward greater gender equity in STEM still faces challenges, but initiatives such as #EllaDoesSTEM from Structuralia and testimonials from professionals such as Andrea E. Manríquez They show that change is possible. Breaking down stereotypes, fostering career interests from an early age, and creating inclusive environments are key steps toward achieving this.
Every action counts when it comes to inspiring more women to join the fields of science, technology, and engineering. Let’s keep building a future where talent and passion are the only requirements for success in STEM! 🚀
