The gender gap in Scottish STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) isn’t just a statistic, it’s a call to action. Despite Scotland's reputation for innovation, females remain significantly under-represented in these crucial fields. The issue isn't about ability but about breaking down barriers that prevent young women from successfully pursuing STEM careers.

When I first looked to start my career in STEM, I didn’t initially study engineering, as when I asked my physics teacher what that was, he replied "girls don’t do engineering". Even after decades have passed since my let-down in late 1980s, Ekosgen’s recent report for Education Scotland reveals the requirement for greater efforts to encourage girls' participation in STEM subjects.

The lack of engagement with STEM subjects from girls at school level not only highlights the persistence of barriers but also contributes to the scarcity of successful role models for young girls. The perception of STEM as a male-dominated field can be not only intimidating but also discouraging, deterring young women from pursuing these paths as it makes it more difficult for them to imagine themselves in these roles.

Before women tackle the complexities of the workplace and school, we need to address the ongoing need to inform and support them in acquiring the skills they require for a career in STEM. The fact that women still represent only 16.5% of the UK engineering workforce and only 28.2% of all women v 37.3%3 men across all industries in Scotland have STEM occupations, suggests that there is still work to do.

Early intervention through education is crucial, as we recognise the pivotal role of Scottish schools in challenging gender biases and promoting STEM subjects. At TechFest we believe that to break down these barriers we need to ensure not just equality but equity across all STEM learning.

All TechFest initiatives incorporate learning methods to support learners regardless of their academic ability. We aim to assist schools by making STEM education interactive and inclusive, encouraging engagement with industry mentors so young people can learn from relatable role models.

Closing the gender gap in Scottish STEM is a difficult but achievable goal, which requires concerted efforts and courage from educators, policymakers, and industry leaders. Education programmes and initiatives need to show girls the opportunities open to them and then help them to achieve those opportunities.

If we are to prevent the "imposter syndrome" which causes many women to prematurely leave a STEM career, women must feel that they are employed because of their strengths and capabilities and not to fill a gender quota. All staff have their own individual needs, and support should be provided to meet those needs regardless of gender and certainly not just to meet a self-imposed KPI.

By promoting positive role models and STEM ambassadors in schools who assist pupils to engage with fun, informative activities whilst simultaneously creating inclusive education and workplace environments, we will not only lead the way in achieving gender equality but also help Scotland’s STEM industries to be more successful and to fulfil their full potential.

Wendy Findlay is National Programme Manager at TechFest

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