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STEAM MENTORSHIP CRITICAL
STEAM MENTORSHIP REMAINS CRITICAL IN THE COVID-19 ERA
Diversity efforts require action today and online mentorship can help
NANCY ROPER
Today, only a quarter of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers are held by women. Women are still less likely to choose a career in STEM than in other fields, and those who do are more likely to pursue a degree in biology or other sciences, rather than mathematics, engineering or computer science. It’s been studied and reported that this gap likely exists due to a lack of support or role models, beginning at an early age. But despite this disparity, women have had great impact in the STEM fields – not least during COVID-19. Across these careers, women scientists have played powerful roles in Canada’s response to COVID-19, working, researching and repurposing their skills and resources to address this ongoing crisis. At Science World, closing the gender gap that exists in STEM is a central focus of our efforts.
We run an annual hallmark event called Girls & STEAM (we added the ‘A’ to include art and design), which just completed its fourth year, having gone completely digital to adapt to the pandemic. Even in a virtual format, this event continues to deliver compelling content and interactive mentorship opportunities for young girls and women. We’ve also expanded our mandate, providing ongoing monthly virtual mentorship opportunities that allow young girls and women to connect with and learn from women who are already working in STEM fields.
In practice, this has meant hosting virtual workshops focused on Indigenous leaders in STEM careers, women paving the way in video gaming and more. We know mentorship is a cornerstone of setting young girls and women up for success, and the only way for them to see and learn firsthand from role models and people in fields that interest them.
Many programs and initiatives have been forced to pivot online in a short timeframe as a result of COVID-19. A mentorship program must be carefully planned, thought through and rolled out. Inclusivity and access must be considered as part of an online program like this one, as reaching those in communities facing barriers is crucial to fostering diversity. A component of this is providing these learning opportunities at no cost to participants. Everyone deserves equal access to education and supplemented learning. It’s no secret that today’s youth do much of their relationship building online, and we must approach mentorship with that same mentality. Mentors must be carefully chosen: those that spark scientific joy beyond the necessary credentials, and those that have unique angles and a true passion for their field. To build diversity in STEAM fields, we must start working on this now. Without diversity within these fields, we cannot accommodate the needs of, and provide support to, diverse communities. This effort requires all voices to be at the table. This is only possible with philanthropic people, communities and businesses supporting the cause. Nancy Roper is vice-president, development, at Science World.
