The Huffington Post – Catherine (Kit) Nugent
“Why is advocating for STEM education and equity a gender issue? The answer is simple. STEM is where the jobs are, both globally and in my home state of New Jersey. Culturally, the gender divide in STEM fields arises out of intimidation and the lack of visible female role models. In communities of poverty, this gap becomes an exposed chasm, where there are few advocates and champions who will raise awareness and provide inspiration, motivation, and increased support. The fact is, as women we tend to live longer and earn less than our male peers. STEM careers are a great equalizer for women. According to STEM.connectors.org, in STEM careers women earn 92 cents for every dollar men earn compared to other fields where the discrepancy is 77 cents to the dollar. Over a lifetime that is the difference of millions of dollars.”(more)