STEM: Ask Catalyst Express

Aug 22, 2022

STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) industries have experienced rapid growth in the 21st century, far outstripping other industries. It’s no secret that women who hold roles in STEM fields face significant challenges. Outnumbered by men, the culture in these industries makes women feel like they don’t belong and reinforces talent management structures that hold women back. Because gender diversity is critical to innovation, organizations seeking to be leaders in their field must take action to become employers of choice for high-potential women.

Catalyst STEM Resources

Quick Takes

Practices

Boston Scientific: Accelerating Progress for Women by Creating Equal Opportunities for Growth Supporter Exclusive
Core elements include improving diversity awareness and inclusion competency skills for all employees, holding leaders accountable for meaningful efforts and results, and increasing transparency and communication about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts and progress. Every employee is responsible for promoting DEI across the organization, regardless of role or level.
Parexel: Leveraging Gender Partnership to Advance Women in Leadership Supporter Exclusive
Different Parexel programs assist women in building the robust internal network that is crucial to advancement. These also successfully engage men as mentors, sponsors, and champions, leveraging their experience and participation in training programs. Regional DEI committees develop and execute strategies reflective of the concerns and needs of their regions. Externally, Parexel has stressed and focused on diversity among its clinical trial participants to create pharmaceutical products that are safe and effective for the populations that use them.
Medtronic: Igniting Women to Lead Through the Medtronic Women’s Network Supporter Exclusive
Medtronic Women’s Network (MWN) is run by employee volunteers—women and men from around the world. Members gain leadership and functional experience to advance their careers and are empowered to drive holistic change. In addition, MWN strategies are strongly linked to company metrics, success measures, and advancement opportunities.
IBM:Leading the Cognitive Era Powered by the Global Advancement of Women Supporter Exclusive
IBM has strategically and purposefully focused on technical women’s career development and advancement. HR and global business leaders partner to drive IBM’s diversity and inclusion goals by attracting and recruiting diverse talent; prioritizing leadership development and talent discussions; and engaging as a good corporate citizen.