Abstract:

In recent decades, women's participation in engineering and science environments has increased globally. This participation is still far from a situation of equity, and has generated a level of social awareness where efforts of different natures have been made: companies have generated initiatives that integrate inclusion and gender equity, universities carry out research and projects related to this topic, and organizations with international impact seek to reach interest groups such as girls, adolescents, and young women, including those in vulnerable situations (Castek, et al, 2019; Meschitti & Lawton, 2017;Thomas et al, 2014; Schwiebert et al, 1999). This research aims to integrate an analysis of the literature on gender equity issues in the STEM environment and a comparative analysis of the industry's effort to increase and develop the number of professional women on its staff, in order to generate more inclusive and fairer organizations and societies, focus to the university perspective and responsibility. The methodology integrates four phases: a bibliographic review of gender equity research in STEM areas, field research with in-depth interviews with companies recognized for their efforts in these areas, and a comparative analysis, which allows for the definition of a roadmap to a higher education institution that seeks to initiate this path of inclusion and equity in STEM environments both in its young students and in its prospects. The results integrate a model of leadership, mentoring, networking, and programs with defined values, and flexible mechanisms, formal and informal, that allows reaching the different stakeholders in engineering and science areas: teachers, collaborators, undergraduates STEM women students and prospective students (high school). There is a long way to go and much to do, and it is with this type of study and action that we will be able to increase the participation of women in engineering and science with the confidence of a more equitable and inclusive society.

Keywords:

STEM, women, educational innovation.