Women highlight STEM-related careers on Pi Day

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Female STEM professionals – including meteorologists – are wear purple Thursday to bring awareness to the need for more women in science, technology, engineering, and math careers.

This is the fourth annual #DressForSTEM event.

#DressForSTEM started from an online collaboration among female meteorologists and their desire to inspire girls to pursue higher education in STEM.

“Research has shown that many children start thinking about STEM careers before the age of 11,” said event organizer, Meteorologist Julia Weiden. “We hope to show young girls that it’s possible to be a successful female in a STEM career.”

Did you know?

Women make up nearly half the workforce, but hold only 24% of jobs in science, technology, engineering, and math.

29% of women who hold positions as broadcast meteorologist, 8% of which are chief meteorologists.

Fewer than 3% of college female freshmen indicate an intention to major in engineering.

The number of computer-related jobs held by women is only 32% That’s a drop from 32% in the 1990s.

Women in STEM, and anyone else who would like to join in solidarity, are encouraged to wear purple and share photos on social media using the hashtag DressForSTEM.

If you have any science questions you can email Helen here or Monique here.