The STEM industry, which encompasses the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, is a crucial sector for economic and social development in the modern era. This combination of disciplines fosters innovation by merging technical and creative thinking. However, despite its growing importance, there is a significant gender imbalance in participation, posing a major challenge for the industry’s future.
What is STEM?
STEM industries include sectors such as:
- Technological development (software, artificial intelligence)
- Biotechnology and medical science
- Industrial design and digital creativity
- Environmental engineering and renewable energies
- Applied mathematics in economics and data analysis
According to the 2023 World Economic Forum report, STEM-related professions rank among the top 10 most in-demand globally, highlighting the need for diverse talent to address challenges such as climate change, digital inclusion, and sustainability.
Gender gap in STEM
Although women make up nearly 50% of the world’s population, their participation in STEM disciplines remains unequal. In 2022, only 28% of women were part of the science and technology workforce, according to UNESCO. Additionally, less than 15% hold leadership positions in these fields.
The barriers include:
- Gender stereotypes: The perception that these fields are “masculine” discourages many women from an early age.
- Lack of role models: The low visibility of women in these fields reinforces the gap.
- Educational disparities: In many countries, girls have less access to science and technology education, especially in disadvantaged communities.
- Non-inclusive work environments: Discrimination and harassment limit women’s retention in these sectors.
Why does the STEM industry need more women?
The inclusion of women in STEM is not only a matter of equity but also an essential strategy for advancing these disciplines. Diverse teams generate more creative and effective solutions. For example, a McKinsey & Company study found that companies with greater gender diversity are 21% more likely to achieve above-average profitability. Women bring unique perspectives to addressing complex challenges such as public health and climate change.
Actions to promote female participation:
- To ensure a more inclusive future in STEM, concrete strategies must be implemented:
- Encouraging interest from childhood: Educational programs like Girls Who Code have proven effective in motivating girls to pursue technology and programming.
- Highlighting female role models: Recognizing women leaders like Ada Lovelace (a computing pioneer) or Katherine Johnson (an aerospace scientist) inspires new generations.
- Inclusive workplace policies: Promoting equal pay, remote work, and work-life balance.
- Investment in training: Companies and governments must fund programs that equip women with technical and creative skills.
STEM women in Contact Center Grupo
Fe Valentina Osorio Rodriguez:
How would you describe your role in CCG?
I work in the development and innovation area, assisting with automation, supporting workflows, chatbots, IVRs, and general automation tasks.
What STEM skills or knowledge do you apply daily in your work?
I use artificial intelligence for my tasks, as well as programming languages and Low-code platforms.
What challenges do you face as a woman in this sector and how did you overcome them?
This sector is generally male-dominated. However, from my position, I don’t see it as a significant challenge because I have Laura by my side, so I feel supported and not alone. This has been important since we support each other a lot.
What importance do you think diversity and inclusion have in your field and the company?
I believe diversity is very important because everyone has their own way of working, and each personality plays a role in the company. This way, we all help each other move forward. Both men and women are valuable options for this work.
How do you think the STEM sector can improve to give women more support?
In my opinion, the sector can support women by recognizing and showcasing more female professionals in the field. For me, seeing my boss is an incentive because it makes me feel supported.
Laura Duarte:
How would you describe your actual role in CCG?
I am currently in charge of all technology operations, as well as development and internal company areas.
What STEM skills or knowledge do you apply daily in your work?
We develop in PHP, React, use Java, and implement automation tools for inbound and outbound lines, chatbots for WhatsApp Web, Instagram, Facebook, and other process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
What goals have you accomplished in your professional career in the STEM sector?
A year and a half ago, I graduated and started coordinating the company’s development area. I began working part-time in university, handling support, inventory, and basic Excel issues. Later, I became a systems leader focusing on web development. I did an internship in another company, working with data analytics and Power BI. Upon returning, I started leading the development area and overseeing web development.
What challenges do you face as a woman in this sector and how did you overcome them?
A big challenge is that not many women study this field. There isn’t much female support, and sometimes people assume that being a woman means lacking technical knowledge. I have overcome this by proving my skills through projects, deliveries, and successful operations.
What importance do you think diversity and inclusion have in your field and the company?
My father is a systems engineer, and 30 years ago, there were very few women in the field. When I graduated, I was the only woman in my class. There is still a belief that systems engineering is only for men. That’s why I think it’s crucial to encourage women to pursue these careers if that’s what they want.
How do you think the STEM sector can improve to give women more support?
It can improve by giving women greater visibility in projects, whether within companies or elsewhere. I believe the ministry has some projects and initiatives to empower women to study technology and science.
Linda Pérez:
How would you describe your actual role in CCG?
As CEO, my primary responsibility is the company’s strategy and growth. I make key decisions, develop new business opportunities, and implement technological solutions to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Additionally, I work closely with our teams to drive innovation and ensure top-tier service.
What STEM skills or knowledge do you apply daily in your work?
Although we often associate STEM with purely technical industries, in a BPO, we constantly apply this knowledge. In my case, I use: data analysis and metrics to optimize the performance and productivity of the Contact Center; automation and artificial intelligence, implementing tools such as chatbots and smart response systems, as well as cybersecurity and cloud technologies to protect customer information and ensure a fast and secure service.
What goals have you accomplished in your professional career in the STEM sector?
Throughout my career, I have successfully implemented innovative solutions that have transformed our operations. Some milestones include: the digital transformation of our company, incorporating advanced technologies in customer service; business expansion and growth, increasing our client portfolio and establishing ourselves as an industry leader. Additionally, leadership in innovation, investing in technological tools to enhance user experience and improve process efficiency.
What challenges do you face as a woman in this sector and how did you overcome them?
STEM has historically been male-dominated, and as a woman, I have faced challenges such as a lack of female representation in leadership and the constant need to prove my capabilities. I overcame this by focusing on continuous education, building a strong professional network, and demonstrating that leadership is based on results and strategic vision.
How do you think the STEM sector can improve to give women more support?
To achieve greater female inclusion in STEM, we must promote early education in technology and science, highlight successful female role models in the industry, and create mentorship programs and support networks to drive women’s professional growth in technology and leadership.
