In 1970, women made up just 8% of the workforce in STEM fields.
It’s now up to 27%, according the U.S. Census Bureau.
But the question of how to get more women interested in STEM remains.
Gender stereotypes, male-dominated cultures, fewer role models, and math anxiety have all been identified as reasons girls lose interest in STEM fields.
Demmer Library in Three Lakes is working on addressing at least one of those issues with its Women in STEM program.
The program introduces young girls and teens to women in our communities that work in the STEM field. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math.
“Part of the ways that they feel like and that they’ve read is that they don’t see regular enough reinforcement that they can stay in fields and that women can excel in those fields. The organizers specifically came to us, and we want our girls to see these careers being highlighted that they feel encouraged to stay in these classes, stay in these interest groups, realize that the women out there are doing just what they want to do too,” said April Lammert, the programming librarian.
The Women in STEM program actually started almost two years ago, but only got a couple months in before the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
Now, the library is bringing it back with a visit to EverGood Farm in Three Lakes on June 30th at 5:30 p.m.
“We have a couple different ones lined up but this one is really exciting because Jenny Tuckey is a farmer and owner and there’s lots of different techniques to use in farming,” said Lammert.
The event is open to anyone, but girls ages 10 to 18 in particular are encouraged to participate.
“The program is open to everyone, it really is. Young and old, families, women and men, they just really they would love to see and especially have it gearing toward that women in the ages between 10 and 18. They would love to see that just to give them the encouragement, but really any age, any group can learn really about these great careers and the women that are in them,” said Lammert.
Registration is encouraged, but not required. You can call 715-546-3391 to sign up. You can also visit the Demmer Library Website to learn about future Women in STEM events. The farm address is 3673 Co Rd A, Rhinelander, WI 54501.
Lammert also recommends people bring a picnic dinner to eat at the farm while they learn.
