To improve the number of women who are underrepresented in various fields of study, especially math and science, national representatives are raising awareness of the importance of female professionals in these industries. Through numerous new initiatives, female students can learn about career opportunities that are available to them after they graduate.
Ray LaHood, U.S. transportation secretary, is partnering with the Women's Transportation Seminar International to boost the enrollment of female students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. This project also encourages women to pursue higher education while working in the transportation industry.
LaHood signed a memorandum of cooperation, which will help analyze why women are underrepresented in the field of transportation, and develop programs that mentor and promote those of them who are interested in technical positions in this field. Furthermore, this agreement will launch opportunities that will teach young girls aged 13 to 18 years about career opportunities in transportation.
"There's tremendous opportunity out there for women interested in transportation-related careers," said LaHood. He added that "we need to do more to prepare, train and educate young women about the possibilities that await them."
During the next eight years, the employment of engineers is expected to grow by 11 percent, and will create approximately 178,300 new jobs, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports.
