Module 4: Practical Steps to Get Started in STEM
IN THIS LESSON
📌 STEM education pathways: Degrees, apprenticeships, and hands-on learning
📌 Building a strong portfolio through projects, coding, and competitions
📌 Internships, scholarships, and networking opportunities for women in STEM
This module provides a roadmap for aspiring women in STEM, helping them navigate educational pathways, build a competitive portfolio, and access career-boosting opportunities.
📌 STEM Education Pathways: Degrees, Apprenticeships, and Hands-On Learning
There are multiple pathways into STEM careers, and choosing the right one depends on individual interests, financial considerations, and learning preferences:
🔹 University Degrees – A traditional route for many STEM careers, offering in-depth theoretical knowledge and research opportunities.
Ideal for careers in engineering, medicine, research, and data science.
Example: A BSc in Computer Science can lead to roles in AI, software engineering, or cybersecurity.
🔹 Apprenticeships – Earn while you learn! Apprenticeships combine work experience with training, making them a great option for hands-on learners.
Available in areas like engineering, IT, and biotechnology.
Example: A Level 6 Aerospace Engineering Apprenticeship can lead to careers in aircraft design.
🔹 Bootcamps & Online Courses – Short-term, skill-focused programs that offer flexibility and practical experience.
Perfect for coding, cybersecurity, AI, and data science.
Example: A coding bootcamp can provide the skills needed for web development or software engineering roles.
🔹 Hands-On Learning & DIY STEM Projects – Personal projects, hackathons, and maker spaces allow students to apply STEM concepts in real-world settings.
Example: Building a robotics project for a competition enhances both technical and problem-solving skills.
✅ Action Step: Research STEM career requirements and identify which educational pathway aligns with your goals.
📌 Building a Strong Portfolio Through Projects, Coding, and Competitions
A well-developed portfolio showcases skills and dedication to potential employers or universities. Women in STEM can stand out by:
🎯 Working on STEM Projects – Build apps, design engineering prototypes, or conduct scientific experiments.
Example: Developing a mobile app to promote sustainability.
🎯 Learning to Code – Many STEM fields require programming knowledge. Python, Java, and C++ are great starting points.
Example: Completing coding challenges on platforms like Codewars or LeetCode.
🎯 Participating in Competitions & Hackathons – Events like the Google Science Fair, FIRST Robotics, or NASA Space Apps Challenge provide experience and networking opportunities.
✅ Action Step: Start a STEM project, document progress online, and participate in at least one competition.
📌 Internships, Scholarships, and Networking Opportunities for Women in STEM
Women in STEM can access numerous opportunities that provide financial support, mentorship, and industry exposure:
💼 Internships & Work Experience – Gaining hands-on experience in a professional setting is invaluable.
Example: Google’s "Women Techmakers" program offers mentorship and internship opportunities.
🎓 Scholarships & Grants – Many organisations offer funding specifically for women pursuing STEM degrees.
Example: The Amelia Earhart Fellowship supports women in aerospace engineering.
🤝 Networking & Women-in-STEM Groups – Joining professional associations helps build connections and find mentors.
Example: WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) and Ada Lovelace Day Network provide mentoring and career resources.
✅ Action Step: Research and apply for at least one internship, scholarship, or networking event to boost career prospects.