Transitioning from Industry to Government

Fewer women than men pursue studies in STEM fields and those who do enter the workforce are often underrepresented and face challenges in sustaining long-term careers due to limited opportunities for advancement. In contrast, women outside of STEM are more likely to participate in the workforce, highlighting persistent gender imbalances across fields. These discrepancies create a measurable gender gap in STEM fields. Critically, across STEM careers (i.e., academia, government, or industry) the challenges faced by women are similar and demand recognition and reform. These challenges encompass a situation where an individual faces difficulties (mental or physical) finishing tasks successfully. This chapter elaborates on such challenges for women in STEM due to their roles and responsibilities as women, mothers, parents, caregivers, or a matrix among roles, and presents first-hand experience of career transitions to navigate these challenges.