Guest Contributor: Rona Justine
Careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are some of the most in-demand and important roles across the globe. However, only 28% of the total STEM workforce is made up of women. This represents a problem not just for equality but also for innovation, altogether. As such, it’s important for girls to explore the various STEM careers that they can consider as early as possible. While there are dozens of STEM careers that girls everywhere can pursue, here are some of the most timely ones in the New Normal:
Software Developers
As a role that marries creativity and coding, software developers are in demand across diverse industries like healthcare, gaming, and retail. From creating applications and sites to operating systems and programs, developers are poised to become the leading STEM career. For example, within the year, almost 300,000 new software developer jobs are expected to crop up. By 2030, another 409,500 jobs will be available. Thanks to this demand and popularity, software developers are also some of the most well-paid professionals. As of 2020, the median pay for software developers is around $110,000. Globally, though, only 8% of all software developers are women, which is why it’s even more necessary to increase representation.
Research Analysts
Data-backed research has rightly become essential across all industries due to its ability to provide valuable insights and note crucial patterns. However, to optimize raw data you need a research analyst. Having been trained in data analytics and communications, these professionals are the most adept at compiling, categorizing, analyzing, and interpreting data in pursuit of specific solutions. The good news for those looking to become a research analyst is that they don’t necessarily need a background in science. Research analysts are so in demand that they are a popular career choice for liberal studies graduates due to their ability to sift through structured and unstructured information. This massive market need for the expertise of research analysts has even catapulted this career to become one of best paid and top growing jobs. Within the decade, such analysts are set for a massive 27% job increase with a median salary of just under $80,000. If girls are able to take advantage of this, it can further narrow the pay gap that women face.
Cybersecurity
Considering that around 4,000 data breaches occur daily, and more than half of all attacks target small to medium enterprises, cybersecurity has become a key investment across all industries This has created over 2.5 million cybersecurity jobs worldwide. As such, industry experts have underscored how women are the key to filling this gap. In fact, cybersecurity analysts say that having more women in the field is “mission-critical” given the rising cybersecurity attacks. After all, women make up more than half of the workforce. Thus, if even a percent of this workforce can be funneled towards cybersecurity, it can drastically appease the vacuum of talent. What’s more, if more girls take up cybersecurity careers, many expect that this will help encourage innovation and dispel self-limiting biases.
Microbiology
STEM careers are also worth pursuing not just because of their popularity but also because of the long-term benefits they can bring. A perfect example of this is microbiology, which is the study of microorganisms. Although it’s projected to grow by just 5% in the next eight years, its importance has only been highlighted by recent healthcare demands. As explained by quality control microbiology and cell culture supervisor Sophia McCall in one of our previous profiles of women in STEM, this career has very important real-life applications. For instance, microbiologists are able to assist in ensuring that new pharmaceutical products are effective and safe. This is an especially critical role given the need for new medicines in the New Normal. Which is why every year, about 2,000 openings for microbiologists are projected—meaning a lot of opportunities for women.
Epidemiology
Following the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, epidemiology has become one of the most sought-after healthcare jobs today. Today, epidemiology is expected to have an impressive 30% job growth. Unlike many other health-related jobs that are often stressful, epidemiology is noted for providing a good work-life balance. This is why many epidemiologists work in the same capacity well into their 60s. And this makes it an especially attractive path for girls who want the opportunity for other passions (both personal and professional) later on. Since epidemiologists examine the causes of diseases and ways to prevent transmissions and recurrences, this is one job that also, essentially, has job security. Every year, approximately 2,300 jobs are opened every year, which means that there will always be a need for talented girls in this field.
Granted, every STEM career can be successfully pursued by girls. But given the present trends in society, business, tech, and healthcare, the above-mentioned careers are some of the best positioned to help girls increase representation, creativity, and transformation within the field of STEM.
Article written by Rona Justine