Push for girls to branch out

WOMEN can improve their economic status by studying and working in the areas of science, technology, engineering and maths.

Research by Mastercard Girls in Tech shows four in five Australian women who graduate with a STEM degree take less than six months to secure their first job.

The research also reveals most women STEM graduates expect to stay in STEM-related fields for their entire degree, citing the number of career options.

Mastercard spokeswoman Karen Lee said while efforts to attract more women into STEM had increased over recent years, there was still a long way to go.

She said increasing women’s participation in STEM study and employment could improve their economic status and job security.

“The results of the research show us that STEM as a field of study and a career choice is one that is not only fulfilling, but it has the depth and breadth to satisfy first job seekers,’’ Lee said.

“If you look at where you know the jobs are going in the future, a lot of jobs are going to be in technology so it’s really important to encourage girls to come into that field.’’

Lee believed many women were still discouraged by misconceptions surrounding STEM.

She said many young girls perceived STEM subjects to be too difficult, while others shied away from STEM because they did not want to work in male-dominated workplaces.

“We need to bring careers in STEM to life – it’s not all sterile and you won’t be sitting at a desk all day,’’ Lee said.

A paper released from the Office of the Chief Scientist last year highlighted the need for ongoing action to support women to pursue STEM careers, saying they were just as talented and capable as men.

“Australia is already a global leader in science,’’ Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel said.

“Imagine what we could achieve if women and men felt equally welcomed ... in STEM professions.’’

Giselle Stutzer graduated from TAFE last year with an Associate Degree in Electronics Engineering. She said job security had played a major part in choosing her career.

“There are opportunities everywhere so there will be job security, for sure,’’ she said.