Across the country, more girls are exploring careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). While progress has been made, girls are still underrepresented in many STEM fields—especially in engineering and technology.

During Women’s History Month, we have an opportunity to highlight the importance of encouraging girls to explore STEM pathways, connect them with strong role models, and provide access to meaningful learning experiences.

Why Encouraging Girls in STEM Matters

STEM careers are among the fastest-growing and highest-paying fields in today’s workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations are projected to grow faster than the average for all jobs and often offer higher median wages.

However, women remain underrepresented in many of these careers. Data from the National Science Foundation shows that while women make up nearly half of the workforce, they hold a smaller percentage of jobs in engineering and computer science.

Encouraging girls to explore STEM early helps close this gap and ensures a stronger, more diverse workforce in the future.

The Power of Role Models

Representation plays a powerful role in shaping student confidence and career choices. When girls see women succeeding in STEM careers, they are more likely to believe they can succeed too. Leaders like Reshma Saujani are helping make that possible. 

As the founder of Girls Who Code, Saujani launched a national movement to close the gender gap in technology. Her work has helped hundreds of thousands of girls gain access to computer science education and build confidence in their skills. She is also known for encouraging girls to embrace challenges and not be afraid of failure—an important mindset in STEM learning. Role models like Saujani show students that success in STEM is not about being perfect, but about being persistent, curious, and willing to try.

Resources That Support Girls in STEM

There are many organizations and programs dedicated to encouraging girls to explore STEM careers. These resources provide mentorship, hands-on learning, and career exploration opportunities:

• Girls Who Code – Offers coding clubs, summer programs, and resources to help girls build skills in computer science.
• Society of Women Engineers – Provides scholarships, mentorship programs, and outreach initiatives to support women in engineering.
• National Girls Collaborative Project – Connects programs across the country that focus on engaging girls in STEM learning.
• EngineerTeen – Shares stories, career profiles, and resources to inspire girls to consider engineering careers.

These organizations help create pathways for girls to explore STEM in a supportive and encouraging environment.

How Schools and Families Can Help

Encouraging girls in STEM doesn’t require a single program—it can happen through everyday experiences at school and at home.

Here are a few ways to support girls in STEM:

• Encourage curiosity and problem-solving
• Provide access to hands-on STEM activities
• Highlight female role models in STEM careers
• Support participation in clubs, competitions, and CTE programs
• Reinforce confidence and celebrate achievements

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs play an important role by offering real-world, hands-on experiences that help students build skills and explore career pathways.

Building Confidence Through Opportunity

Confidence grows when students are given opportunities to try, fail, learn, and try again. STEM education helps students develop critical thinking, creativity, and resilience—skills that are valuable in any career.

By creating supportive environments and providing access to resources, we can help more girls see themselves as future engineers, innovators, and leaders.

Looking Ahead

Encouraging girls in STEM is about more than filling jobs—it’s about expanding opportunities, strengthening innovation, and building a more inclusive future.

When girls are given the tools, support, and inspiration they need, there is no limit to what they can achieve.