Ask anyone to think of a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, a computer technician or a mathematician and they’re unlikely to picture a woman, even if they’re a woman themselves. Gender stereotyping and unconscious bias is real and starts at a young age and its impact, amongst other things is resulting in gross under-representation of females in STEM roles at every level.

This short video ‘Redraw the Balance’ made by the MullenLowe Group, illustrates the problem:

Whatever the historical, societal or physiological reasons are that women have tended less towards STEM studies and careers, the fact is that in an ever-more technology driven world, there is and will continue to be a skills shortage. A study by STEM Learning came up with a cost to UK businesses in the sector of £1.5 billion per year* and it’s estimated that there will be a shortage of up to 500,000 ICT workers in Europe by 2020.**

Encouraging all children into STEM careers is important but it is particularly helpful to redress the gender imbalance, as there is little to suggest that ability is the problem.

There is evidence however, to suggest that girls are naturally less confident in some STEM subjects and that positive role models can help to change this. Europe-wide research by Microsoft showed that the presence of a role model almost doubled the interest girls had in STEM subjects.***

There are many charities, groups and companies across the globe that are working to change this and at Love Tech we are passionate about playing our part, to positively influence opinions, awareness and ultimately the choices our young people make in the future.