Breaking the Bias Towards Women in STEM

As the manufacturing world advances, it’s important to address the underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. According to the World Economic Forum, the global number of women in Engineering, Data and AI increased from 15% to 20% in 2021–a positive sign that we are moving in the right direction for development, but still missing major opportunities for growth.?

To address gender bias and empower women across the globe to pursue a career in STEM, we asked associates across our workforce to share their experiences in supply chain roles as well as their insights to help bridge the gap.

Genny Perez is a buyer at MAT Foundry Group, a leading manufacturer of brake discs and drums located in the UK. She works closely with MAT’s supply partners to procure raw materials and negotiate the best price for our customers.

Serving a key role in MAT’s supply chain management, Genny believes that shaping the way we view the STEM field begins with discussion–and having it early.

“Despite being of the younger generation and attending an all-girls school, STEM subjects were never as heavily encouraged as other subjects, like performing arts. Schools and universities can help reduce unconscious biases by inviting female role models and leaders across all industries to speak to young girls, inspiring them to pursue STEM fields and other subjects that they have genuine interest in.”

Lily Pan, Vice President of Logistics at MAT, believes that the landscape has already changed and continues to change. Overseeing operations at many of MAT’s global foundry and distribution sites, Lily says “It’s about mindset. As long as you have the drive to move after what you want without imposing restrictions on yourself, you will be presented with many opportunities to grow.”?

With critical customer deliveries on the line, supply chain positions are in demand and Lily underscores that no field is driven by gender, but by performance.

“It’s a matter of having a willingness to learn and continuously encourage others to develop their voices and strengths. I was once the only woman in a meeting; now I’m seeing more women rise to management and leadership positions, even while balancing a family with a career. Many women who begin on the ground level of the warehouse are being promoted to shift supervisors,” Lily shares. “There are several career paths in distribution that both women and men are advancing through.”?