Persistence and Perseverance: How Women in STEM Navigate Work Choice, Career Development, and Work-Life Balance
Abstract
A large and vibrant science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce has a range of benefits for the economic and social well-being of communities; yet, women continue to be underrepresented in these occupations. Implications from the COVID-19 pandemic may further exacerbate disparities in women’s representation in STEM fields, since women are often disproportionately responsible for childcare and family responsibilities. This research seeks to provide a better understanding of the challenges facing women working in the STEM fields and how these challenges influence the career behavior of women in STEM broadly. More specifically, findings from 48 semi-structured interviews with women working in STEM provide insight into women’s work choice and motivation, work development and adjustments over the course of careers, how women manage work-life balance, and work attitudes and attributes unique to women in STEM. Findings reveal a common a thread: women in STEM are defined by their persistence and perseverance. This research provides better understanding about the work experiences of women in STEM fields and serves as a foundation for future conversations about gender disparities in the STEM workforce. Until we understand the experiences of women in workforce at an individual-level, we cannot produce meaningful, systemic, and equitable social change.
Persistence and Perseverance: How Women in STEM Navigate Work Choice, Career Development, and Work-Life Balance
MBSC Ballroom Poster # 101 - G (Masters)
A large and vibrant science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce has a range of benefits for the economic and social well-being of communities; yet, women continue to be underrepresented in these occupations. Implications from the COVID-19 pandemic may further exacerbate disparities in women’s representation in STEM fields, since women are often disproportionately responsible for childcare and family responsibilities. This research seeks to provide a better understanding of the challenges facing women working in the STEM fields and how these challenges influence the career behavior of women in STEM broadly. More specifically, findings from 48 semi-structured interviews with women working in STEM provide insight into women’s work choice and motivation, work development and adjustments over the course of careers, how women manage work-life balance, and work attitudes and attributes unique to women in STEM. Findings reveal a common a thread: women in STEM are defined by their persistence and perseverance. This research provides better understanding about the work experiences of women in STEM fields and serves as a foundation for future conversations about gender disparities in the STEM workforce. Until we understand the experiences of women in workforce at an individual-level, we cannot produce meaningful, systemic, and equitable social change.