Careers involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics have a promising future. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020 STEM occupations paid more than double that of non-STEM occupations, on average, and those jobs are expected to grow rapidly through 2030.

Yet women are vastly underrepresented in the field: In 2019, 73% of STEM workers were men. Additionally, Hispanic and Black workers represented only 8% and 9% of the STEM field, despite making up 17% and 11% of the workforce overall, according to data from the Pew Research Center.

For girls, interest in STEM seems to decline as they get older. 

As she grew up in Yugoslavia, Tijana Rajh knew men were OK with her becoming a scientist – as long as she understood there were limits to what she could accomplish.

“There was a feeling of, ‘OK, we’ll let you play with the ball.’ But there was this glass ceiling that existed,” said Rajh, director of Arizona State University’s School of Molecular Sciences.

Rajh’s experience isn’t unique. Women make up less than 30% of the world’s scientific researchers, according to UNESCO data, and a report by the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources found that women hold the least senior administrative positions in STEM. “It’s still an old boys club in many respects,” said Donatella Danielli, director of ASU’s School of Mathematical and Statistical sciences. ASU is changing that dynamic.