Southern Utah University has found a way to honor high school girls who are showing the extra initiative in STEM learning, fields that have been lacking female involvement at surprising rates. The girls being honored are passionately pursuing STEM careers, despite statistics that do not bode well for women.

“More than 57 percent of college undergrads are women, but only 18 percent of those progress into science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, as a career, according to the National Center for Education Statistics,” according to St. George News.

“With the support of parents and educators, 142 high school-aged girls from Southern Utah competed in the ‘Aspirations in Computing’ program of the National Center for Women in Information Technology.”

In the competition, the girls displayed their ability to code, create web designs, and show their information technology skills. 41 winners will be awarded for their incredible skill. Competitions like these allow girls to overcome the stigmas that often come with STEM fields.

At times, girls don’t see these fields as desirable or “cool,” yet may have natural talent in concentrations where the economic opportunities and career opportunities have been on the rise.

“This program gives these girls an aptitude in computing and aspirations to continue in this field,” said Southern Utah University’s Associate Professor of Information Systems, Dr. Shalini Kesar, according to the report.

“Our goal is to build awareness about the technology field and to give participants confidence in the skills they acquire.”

While the U.S. Government and companies are working to make sure all of the necessary computing and network tools are available to every student, Kesar still believes that accessibility is one of the big barriers that Southern Utah faces.

“The Aspirations in Computing program and competition provide a long-term community for female technologists, from K-12 through higher education and beyond,” according to the report.

“It encourages persistence in computing through continuous engagement and ongoing encouragement at each pivotal stage of the students’ educational and professional development.”

There are certainly statistical challenges facing girls interested in STEM careers, but these girls are quickly leveling the playing field.

Read the full story here.

Article by Navindra Persaud, Education World Contributor