Why Many Girls Avoid STEM: The Hard Truth

As a woman in STEM, I know firsthand the challenges that come with choosing this path. From my early years to my corporate experience and now as a business owner in tech education, I’ve seen many young girls start strong in STEM but eventually choose an "easier" route. But is it really easier? And why do so many girls feel like STEM isn’t for them?

The Unspoken Pressures

One of the biggest reasons many girls step away from STEM is the constant need to prove ourselves. The pressure to excel, to be twice as good just to be taken seriously, can be exhausting. While boys are often encouraged to push forward despite failures, girls are sometimes met with hesitation, as if mistakes mean we’re just not cut out for it.

Lack of Representation and Mentorship

It’s hard to be what you can’t see. Even today, STEM fields are dominated by men, and finding female mentors can be difficult. Many young girls look around and don’t see role models who resemble them. This lack of representation can make it feel like STEM isn’t meant for us, even when we have the passion and skills.

The Social Factor

Let’s be honest—STEM isn’t always the most welcoming place for women. The isolation, the subtle (or not-so-subtle) biases, and the feeling of not quite belonging can be discouraging. Meanwhile, other fields often offer a sense of community and acceptance that STEM sometimes lacks.

The Myth of the "Easy Path"

Here’s the reality: stepping away from STEM doesn’t necessarily mean life gets easier. Every field has its own challenges, but avoiding STEM because it’s "too hard" or "not for girls" is a dangerous mindset. The real issue isn’t capability—it’s the environment. Girls are just as capable, but without the right support, many choose not to fight a battle they shouldn't have to fight in the first place.

Breaking the Cycle

So, how do we change this? It starts with us—women in STEM—mentoring, encouraging, and being the representation young girls need. It also requires systemic change: better support in schools, workplaces, and society to make STEM a place where girls feel like they belong.

My Journey: From STEM Professional to Code Wiz Rutherford Owner

I spent 15 years in the tech industry before taking a leap and starting Code Wiz Rutherford, a space where kids—especially young girls—can build their confidence in coding, robotics, and game design. As a woman entrepreneur in STEM, I know firsthand how tough this journey can be. But I also know how rewarding it is to break barriers and create opportunities for others.

At Code Wiz, I want to ensure that no girl feels like she has to step away from STEM because it’s "too hard" or because she doesn’t belong. Every day, I see young minds—girls and boys alike—building, problem-solving, and proving that they are more than capable. And that’s why I keep pushing forward.

Not everyone will survive the STEM journey, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. The more we push forward, the more we pave the way for those who come after us.

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