March is Women’s History Month and inspiring/expanding young women in science and engineering. My 14-year-old granddaughter aspires to be an astronaut and go to Mars by way of the Naval Academy or MIT. It is with her future in mind that I am delighted to celebrate Women’s History Month and talking about Judith Love Cohen.
She was an American aerospace engineer. She was an electrical engineer on the Minuteman missile, the science ground station for the Hubble Space Telescope, the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, and the Apollo Space Program. In particular, her work on the Abort-Guidance System is credited with helping save Apollo 13. After her retirement from engineering, she founded a children’s multimedia publishing company, eventually publishing more than 20 titles before her death in 2016. Fun fact – She was the mother of computer scientist and engineer Neil Siegel and actor-musician Jack Black.
By the fifth grade, students were paying Cohen to do their homework. By the age of 19, Cohen was studying engineering and dancing ballet. No doubt the astronauts of Apollo 13 are grateful Cohen choose engineering. The sad news is that for most of Cohen’s studies and career, she was the only female engineer.
I am excited about my granddaughter’s dream as we need more women in the science and engineering fields. Whether she becomes an astronaut, an engineer or a biologist, she is smart enough, strong enough and brave enough. My message to all young women out there, dream big and go for it!
Cultivating Career Interests in Engineering and Science
Our world is rapidly evolving. Driven by technological advancements, it is important to encourage future generations to explore careers in engineering and science. However, many girls may not consider these fields due to stereotypes or lack of exposure. As parents, educators, and mentors, we have the responsibility to foster their interests and provide them with the necessary support to pursue their passions. How do we encourage them to follow their “spark” when their passion is ignited in these fields?
Introduce girls to successful female engineers and scientists who serve as role models. Seeing women thriving in these fields can inspire them and challenge stereotypes. Encourage visits to universities, science museums, and STEM-focused events where they can interact with professionals and gain insights into different career paths. Showcase how engineering and science contribute to solving real-world challenges and making a difference in society. Discussing topics such as renewable energy, environmental conservation, or medical advancements can help girls understand the relevance and importance of these fields in addressing global issues.
Foster a curiosity-driven learning environment where girls feel encouraged to ask questions and explore various subjects. Support their interests in STEM-related hobbies such as building circuits, conducting experiments, or exploring nature. Provide opportunities for hands-on learning experiences through activities like coding workshops, robotics competitions, or science camps. Engaging in practical experiments and projects allows girls to see the real-world applications of STEM concepts and develop problem-solving skills. By nurturing their curiosity, we can ignite a lifelong passion for learning and discovery.
Mentors can provide guidance, share their experiences, and offer advice on educational and career pathways. Find individuals in the field that are willing to provide those mentorship opportunities where girls can connect. Additionally, create supportive communities or clubs where girls can collaborate with peers who share similar interests and aspirations.
Celebrating their accomplishments and achievements can boost their confidence and motivation. Recognize their efforts in school projects, competitions, or extracurricular activities related to engineering and science. By acknowledging their successes, we reinforce their belief in their abilities and encourage continued exploration.
We can help girls discover their interest in engineering and science careers and empower them to pursue their passions with confidence simply by giving them this type of exposure. By breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and providing support and encouragement, we can create a more inclusive and diverse workforce that harnesses the full potential of all individuals. Together, we can help shape the future and make a positive impact on the world.
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