Two distinguished alumnae from DuPont, currently holding top positions in the STEM sector, recently delivered a powerful message to an audience of female professionals at the recent Inspiring Women in STEM 2023 Conference. Amber Wellman, Chief Sustainability Officer at Chemours, and Teri Quinn Gray, Chief Operating Officer at Provivi, emphasized the importance of leading with both courage and understanding in the dynamic landscape of female leadership.
Speaking at a fireside chat during the Delaware BioScience Association's annual conference, Wellman and Gray shared insights and perspectives on navigating the complexities of being a female leader in STEM fields. Wellman highlighted the dual nature of leadership, stating, "It's not mutually exclusive. You can be courageous and afraid, and you can be grateful and ambitious. Female leaders recognize that duality." She added a humorous touch, mentioning the ability of female leaders to hold two thoughts simultaneously.
Both speakers emphasized the need for female leaders to step outside their comfort zones and embrace meaningful change. Wellman pointed out that privileging comfort over change is a hindrance to progress, emphasizing the necessity of pushing boundaries. "You have to be confident in what you know and what you don't know," she advised, underscoring the importance of self-assurance in leadership.
The Inspiring Women in STEM 2023 Conference, now in its 11th year, provided a platform for 250 attendees to engage in panels, mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities at the University of Delaware's Clayton Hall. The audience ranged from seasoned professionals in STEM to soon-to-be graduates eager to enter the field, creating a diverse and inclusive environment for knowledge exchange.
In the realm of STEM professions encompassing life sciences, physical and earth sciences, engineering, and architecture, as well as computer and math occupations, women have made notable strides. Recent studies from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that women now constitute 28% of jobs in these fields, marking a significant increase from around 8% in 1970. The rising representation of women in STEM reflects a positive trend, and conferences like these play a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and mentorship.
As the STEM sector continues to evolve, the insights shared by Wellman and Gray serve as a beacon for aspiring female leaders, encouraging them to embrace the challenges, complexities, and opportunities that come with leadership roles in these dynamic fields. The conference not only celebrates the achievements of women in STEM but also paves the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in these critical sectors of innovation and progress.