February 11th marks an important day on the global calendar: the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day stands as a reminder of the vital role women play in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Here at NewBoCo Education, we believe this day is not just for celebration, but also a moment for reflection on the progress made and the challenges that persist in bridging the gender gap in these critical areas.
Despite increased awareness and advocacy, as of 2024, women constitute only 34–35% of the STEM workforce, a percentage that has remained stagnant since 2018. This reality underscores the persistent barriers that continue to limit opportunities for female-identifying individuals in science and technology. At NewBoCo Education, we are committed to changing this narrative.
Our initiatives are focused on dismantling three key barriers: exclusionary culture, peer influence, equity, and gender bias. One of the most impactful programs we run is the Girls Who Code Club, designed to inspire and empower female-identifying students. We offer two age-specific clubs—one for 3rd to 5th graders and another for 6th to 12th graders—where participants work on projects, build essential skills, and foster a sisterhood over 10 weeks. These clubs are held twice a year, creating an environment where girls can explore their interests in STEM without feeling intimidated or out of place.
The outcomes are inspiring. Many girls find themselves discovering a passion for STEM that they might not have considered otherwise.
“As a freshman in high school, I never considered a career in engineering until taking Girls Who Code,” shared a participant from the 2024 cohort. “I wish everyday was Saturday so I could code with my friends.”
Tammy Haynes, a Girls Who Code volunteer and BAE Systems employee, has championed the club: “I’m passionate about getting more women in STEM. This (Girls Who Code Club) has been a fantastic opportunity to engage the girls early and show them that yes, they can do this—and that it’s not just for boys.”
Moreover, our commitment extends beyond the students. By empowering educators across the state of Iowa, we are creating a ripple effect that enhances the landscape of computer science education. Since 2017, NewBoCo has provided training for in-service K–12 teachers throughout Iowa, equipping over 2,200 educators to introduce computer science into their classrooms. This effort has reached more than 100,000 K–12 students, expanding opportunities for everyone.
As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let us recommit ourselves to breaking down the barriers that limit access and opportunities for women in STEM. At NewBoCo Education, we are proud of the steps we have taken, but we recognize there is still much work to be done. Together, we can inspire the next generation of women scientists, engineers, and technologists, ensuring their voices are heard and their potential fully realized.
Let us continue to support, uplift, and create spaces where women and girls can thrive in science and technology. Stay connected with our journey as we work towards closing the gender gap in STEM, one initiative at a time.
