“What do you want to be when you grow up?”
It’s a question we’ve all heard at some point in our childhoods. In fact, statistics show many children start thinking about STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers before the age of 11.
Although strides have been made for the science world to be more inclusive, women only make up about 27% of the STEM workforce. That’s why, during Women’s History Month, we're highlighting women in West Texas who are trailblazers in their careers and who are inspiring young girls along the way.
Dr. Heather Lehto is an associate professor in the Department of Geoscience at Angelo State University. She has spent the past two decades studying volcanology and volcano seismology. She recalled how her first geology professor impacted her journey.
“My very first geology instructor was a female. I think it really helps seeing ‘hey this woman is a female and she is a geologist. I can do this too.’ So, representation matters,” Lehto said.
Kayla Robinson is the STEM program coordinator for Girl Scouts of Central Texas. In this role, she organizes and oversees programs like the annual STEM-fest and the mobile STEM center with the hopes of cultivating courage, confidence and character in her Girl Scout troop. She gushed about the difference she’s noticed in the girls after their participation in these programs.
“Not only do I see their confidence growing in themselves, but it also boosts their confidence in their ability to problem solve and think outside the box. And how to be innovative and dare to be different and try something new,” Robinson said.
Denise Ibarra serves as zoo curator at the Abilene Zoo. In this role, she oversees the selection and care of the animals that come through the zoo.
She offered this advice to young girls who are eager to follow in her footsteps.
“The more you can start early in your life with all the volunteer work and trying to do internships as soon as you get into college, that only helps them get a job faster when they graduate,” Ibarra said.
These three women are working to be inspiring and champions in their respective careers.