Lifting the Next Generation: Utah's Trailblazing Women in STEM and Their Impact on Girls

Lift Utah Foundation
Oct 5
4 min read

In recent years, the push for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) has seen impressive growth. Utah, with its thriving tech landscape and innovative spirit, is home to women making significant strides in these fields. These trailblazers are not only excelling in their careers but are actively working to inspire the next generation of girls interested in technology and engineering. This post celebrates their accomplishments and highlights opportunities for girls and career-switchers eager to enter these dynamic areas.

Mini-Profiles of Trailblazing Women

Software Engineer: Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson is a software engineer at a prominent tech company in Silicon Slopes. Her journey into coding started during high school, where she first discovered her passion for technology. After earning a degree in computer science, Sarah contributed to projects that improved user experiences across numerous platforms. She knows firsthand how important representation is and often shares her story at local schools.

“Seeing someone who looks like you in a tech role can inspire you to pursue that path,” Sarah points out. By leading coding workshops for young girls, she is helping them develop confidence in their technical abilities. Her workshops have engaged over 200 girls in the last year alone, fostering a strong interest in tech careers.

Biomedical Researcher: Dr. Emily Chen

Dr. Emily Chen works as a biomedical researcher at a well-respected university in Utah. Focused on finding innovative solutions for chronic diseases, Emily's journey into STEM began with her childhood fascination with the human body. Her commitment to making a difference in people's lives drives her work and outreach.

Emily actively partners with local high schools to introduce students to the basics of biomedical research. "I want to show girls that they can be scientists and make impactful discoveries," she explains. Her mentorship initiatives have inspired more than 150 young women to explore careers in science, highlighting the importance of early exposure to STEM fields.

Tradeswoman in Advanced Manufacturing: Lisa Martinez

Lisa Martinez is a tradeswoman who specializes in advanced manufacturing. After switching careers, she discovered a passion for working with technology and hands-on projects. Lisa now leads a team at a manufacturing facility, overseeing the production of high-tech components.

“I want to break the stereotype that manufacturing is just for men,” Lisa asserts. She regularly offers workshops for girls, showcasing various opportunities in trades. Over the past two years, her sessions have inspired over 100 girls to consider careers in manufacturing, helping to transform perceptions within this critical sector.

Try-It Menu: Opportunities for Girls

Utah offers a diverse range of resources and programs aimed at helping girls and career-switchers explore STEM fields. Here’s a "try-it" menu of opportunities available:

Free Coding Nights: Local organizations host free coding nights where girls can learn foundational programming skills in an encouraging environment. These events often feature guest speakers from the tech industry, providing valuable insights into potential career paths.
Maker Spaces: Community workshops equipped with tools and technology for hands-on learning are widely available. They allow girls to experiment with robotics, 3D printing, and electronics, fostering creativity and innovation. Events tailored specifically for young women create a welcoming atmosphere to encourage participation.

Mentorship That Works

Mentorship remains a vital component in guiding girls and career-switchers through their STEM journeys. Here are some effective mentorship strategies:

Micro-Mentoring Circles: These circles connect girls with women in STEM for short, focused mentoring sessions. Participants can ask questions and gain insights into various careers in an informal setting, fostering relationships and open dialogue.
90-Day Skill Sprints: 90-day skill sprints are tailored programs that help participants develop specific skills in a short period. These programs often include hands-on projects, workshops, and mentorship from industry professionals, ideal for anyone looking to quickly gain new skills.

Voices from the Community

Hearing from influential community members adds depth to understanding the impact of these initiatives.

University Program Lead: Dr. Rachel Adams

Dr. Rachel Adams, a program lead at a local university, underscores the importance of creating clear pathways for women in STEM. “We need to ensure that girls see the possibilities available to them,” she states. Her programs focus on providing the necessary support and resources for success.

High-School Robotics Coach: Mark Thompson

Mark Thompson, who coaches a high school robotics team, has seen the transformation in girls who engage with robotics. “When girls join the team, they often start with self-doubt, but by season's end, they have gained confidence and are ready to tackle challenges,” he shares. His coaching emphasizes teamwork and resilience, skills essential for future success.

Mid-Career Mom: Jessica Lee

Jessica Lee is a mid-career mom who successfully transitioned into the tech field. “Making the switch was daunting, but the support from mentors and the community was invaluable,” she explains. Now, Jessica mentors other women looking to make a similar leap, showing the power of guidance in one's professional journey.

Moving Forward Together

The vibrant community of women in STEM throughout Utah continues to empower future generations. Through mentorship, hands-on experiences, and supportive programs, they are paving the way for girls and career-switchers interested in technology and engineering. By celebrating these role models and showcasing available pathways, we can inspire more young women to explore careers in STEM. This ultimately leads to a more diverse, innovative, and exciting future for everyone.