Girls in STEM

For too long, the various fields of STEM have the illusion of being a “boy’s club”. In reality, girl power has been in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics the whole time. From the microscope to the rocketship, women have always been at the forefront of STEM. The Super Scientists of tomorrow can learn a lot by looking at some of the leading ladies from days gone by.

Microscopic Discoveries, Enormous Legacies

Women have been making contributions to the world of science for generations. Take for instance the incredible work of Rosalin Franklin. In her early 30’s, she worked with a group of predominantly male scientists on the structure of DNA. Some of humanity’s most crucial information on the literal building blocks of life were due in no small part to girl power.

Protection Through Innovation

Another champion of girls in STEM is the brilliant chemist, Stephanie Kwolek. Born in 1923 to Polish immigrants, she seized an opportunity to work for a major polymer company during World War II. A brilliant inventor, her dedication and continued work led to the production of Kevlar in 1965. This high-strength fiber is used to this very day in the personal protection of our military and law enforcement. 

Shattered Glass Ceilings

There were also pioneers in breaking social norms, such as Beatrice Hicks. Her father was a chemical engineer and she knew that she had what it would take to follow in the family footsteps. Despite the naysayers during her schooling, she eventually began at work at Western Electric. Through her tenacity and hard work, Beatrice was able to hold many leadership positions within the company. Later she co-founded the Society of Women Engineers, the world’s largest nonprofit centered around the power of women in engineering. Engineering innovations developed by Ms. Hicks were even used by the U.S. Space Program on missions like the Apollo Moon Landings.

To Infinity And Beyond

Not to be outdone by Beatrice’s contributions to the space race, mathematician Katherine Johnson also had her eyes set on the stars. Her advanced understanding of calculations relating to orbital mechanics allowed for the success of numerous NASA launches. Without this woman’s mastery of math, men like Alan Shepard and John Glenn would have never been able to go into space. She is featured prominently as one of the main characters in the 2016 film Hidden Figures, a testament to her lasting impact and influence.

These women of the past opened doors for your little Super Scientist to explore whatever she wants and have confidence in her ability to succeed. To learn more about what she can do in a STEAM program at your school, contact us.