Supporting Women and Girls in STEM Apprenticeships: Employer's Guide

Barriers to getting more women into STEM careers

Between outdated stereotypes and difficulty getting into any male-dominated career, women and girls can find it difficult to succeed in STEM. But why is this still the case?

(Please note: Wherever we refer to ‘girls’ or ‘women’, we are speaking inclusively of everyone that identifies as a girl or woman, as well as gender neutral, fluid, and non-conforming people.

We also acknowledge the importance of intersectionality, recognising that experiences of gender are shaped by other identities such as race, class, sexuality, ability, and more.)

"Apprenticeships aren’t for people like me."

Apprenticeships are often seen as a fallback option for less academic students, and particularly boys. This stereotype alone can discourage women and girls from considering them as a real career option, even though STEM apprenticeships offer valuable skills and fantastic progression opportunities.

"The recruitment process doesn’t speak to me."

The way STEM apprenticeships are marketed matters, and if the language and imagery used in recruitment doesn’t reflect or speak to women or girls, they won’t feel welcomed or inspired to apply. Unconscious bias in the selection process can also make it harder for women to get a foot in the door.

"I don’t see anyone who looks like me."

There is an underrepresentation and lack of visibility of women in STEM, which means those looking in don’t always see a potential place for themselves. Role models matter, and without them, the idea of thriving in STEM can feel unrealistic.

"Even if I make it, will I succeed?"

Breaking into male-dominated fields can be tough enough, progressing and thriving can be tougher. Women often face challenges such as finding support, navigating unwelcoming workplace cultures, and a lack of clear development pathways.

"I’m interested, but the path isn’t clear."

Women and girls are interested in STEM, but the barriers, from stereotypes to lack of support, make it hard to take that first step. Fixing this means changing perceptions, improving outreach, and building supportive environments where women and girls can envision a future for themselves – and feel empowered to go after it.