Assoc. Professor Danielle Fowler

In the July/August 2024 issue of Washington Monthly, Merrick School of Business Associate Professor of Information Systems Danielle Fowler was featured in a series called “Women In STEM.”  the Q&A style interview was as follows:

(Washington Monthly) Why is it important for institutions of higher education to help more women graduate with STEM degrees?

(Dr. Fowler) Institutions of higher education have a crucial role to play in ensuring a more balanced and diverse STEM workforce. Women bring a unique perspective and problem-solving approach to these fields, which is essential for creating technologies that truly benefit everyone.

Take artificial intelligence, for example. Biases can creep in during development, potentially leading to unfair or discriminatory outcomes. By encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers, we can ensure that these powerful tools are built with inclusivity in mind.
It’s not just about fairness; it’s about progress, as well. Diverse teams are demonstrably more creative and innovative. When women are empowered to contribute their talents in STEM, it leads to a stronger workforce and a more competitive economy overall.

(Washington Monthly) What are the main obstacles faced by women who are considering or pursuing STEM majors?

(Dr. Fowler) There are two main hurdles women face in STEM fields. The first is unconscious bias. Stereotypes about women in STEM can be pervasive, leading to assumptions about their capabilities and interests. This can impact everything from hiring decisions to classroom interactions, creating a less welcoming environment.

The second challenge is a lack of female role models. Unfortunately, STEM fields haven’t always been as inclusive as they should be. Seeing fewer women in leadership positions can make it difficult for young women to envision themselves in those roles. This can lead to a confidence gap, particularly in math-heavy subjects.

(Washington Monthly) What can government do to help encourage young women to pursue degrees and careers in STEM fields?

(Dr. Fowler) We need to send a clear message from a young age that girls are not only welcome but crucial to the future of STEM fields. Government funding can play a big role here, supporting initiatives that make these subjects engaging and accessible, especially for girls in rural areas or from underrepresented backgrounds.

We can also leverage successful women in STEM as powerful role models. Highlighting their achievements and contributions disrupts the narrative of these fields being “men’s clubs.” Consider Dr. Arati Prabhakar, the first woman with a Caltech applied physics PhD, who went on to lead both NIST and DARPA. Now she’s the director of the White House
Office of Science and Technology Policy! Showcasing leaders like Dr. Prabhakar inspires young women and demonstrates the incredible opportunities that await them.

(Washington Monthly) How can educational institutions and employers work together to ensure access to STEM education and opportunities for women?

(Dr. Fowler) One key area in which educational institutions and employers can collaborate is building strong mentorship programs. These programs should connect experienced professionals, particularly women in STEM, with early career women. Formal training for mentors and regular interaction are crucial for success. Ideally, these programs can start with students during internships, fostering relationships that bridge the gap between academia and the workforce.

Another important aspect is fostering inclusive spaces for networking. Universities can champion diversity in panels, workshops, and conferences, ensuring that women see themselves represented in these spaces. Collaboration is key—the industry can work with universities and research institutions to create joint mentorship and networking
initiatives. This creates a powerful support system for women in STEM throughout their careers.

Finally, encouraging a culture that values mentorship and networking is essential. Organizations should have policies that support these activities, recognizing and rewarding mentors for their time and investment. Providing resources for networking events allows women to connect with a broader range of professionals, further propelling their success. By working together, educational institutions and employers can create a pipeline that empowers women to thrive in STEM fields.