Women have made notable gains in STEM representation in recent years — representing about 35% of all STEM workers — but this field is still plagued by underrepresentation and a lack of diversity.
We asked some inspiring women in STEM at ECS to share more about their career journeys and experiences, including the unique challenges they’ve faced, the women who’ve helped shape them into the professionals they are today, and how women can support and encourage other women.
Meet them:
SHAYLA TREADWELL
What challenges have you faced in STEM and how have you overcome them?
One of the most significant challenges of being a woman in tech has been managing my uncertainties. The tech community was very welcoming when I chose to bring my authentic self to the table. The areas I have been told are my most significant weaknesses ended up being my greatest strengths – once I allowed them to be. I meet these challenges by assuring myself that I belong, paving a path, and sharing experiences to help pay it forward for others.
JOANNE MORRIS
What challenges have you faced in STEM and how have you overcome them?
There’s always discomfort in being in the minority in any group. It’s taken time for me to build my confidence in a field dominated by men. Strong relationships and mentoring engagements with both men and women have helped me along the way. Also, reading “Lean In” – Sheryl Sandberg and Nell Scovell’s book about women taking charge of their careers – after having kids was a game-changer.
RAMONA ZILLIGEN
What challenges have you faced in STEM and how have you overcome them?
Women are nurturers in life and strive to make sure our families and friends are supported. It may take thinking outside the box and being creative to keep your career moving forward, but it’s also important to utilize other women in your network (or find some to grow your network). ECS has amazing women to lean on.
BLAIR ELLIS
What challenges have you faced in STEM and how have you overcome them?
We are outnumbered but not overlooked. Trying to make room for more people that look like me is the biggest challenge, but it is not impossible.
YONG JACOBS
What challenges have you faced in STEM and how have you overcome them?
Not only was entering the STEM field a challenge given my background growing up in Korea, but I also had to overcome a language barrier (English is my second language). There were times that I wanted to give up, but I always put my mind back into it and was able to accomplish what I’ve dreamed: becoming an IT professional.
How have the women in your life impacted your career journey?
How can women effectively support and encourage other women, both in STEM and day-to-day life?
At ECS, we recognize the incomparable value of women’s contributions to STEM and champion greater representation for women in this field as well as a greater diversity of viewpoints at every level of our organization.
Interested in joining our team? Head over to our careers page to find the perfect role for you.
