In Canada, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professions are still heavily male-dominated. In fact, women make up less than one-quarter of people employed in STEM careers. Building the next generation of female STEM talent is critical for solving the complex problems of today and the future.
Despite the societal barriers, the opportunity to guide young girls to develop a passion for STEM and global sciences is more important than ever. Fortunately, the foundation exists. According to a 2019 survey by Microsoft, 52 per cent of girls aged 12 to 17 said they would consider a job in a technology or science-related field. There are endless opportunities for women to not only break barriers but to thrive in the STEM industry.
There are a growing number of Canadian companies championing this cause by recruiting and retaining more female talent. As a leading biopharma in Canada and with a mission to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases, Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) is inspiring a new generation of women within the pharma industry. With 184 women in STEM roles, 68 per cent of women in Senior Manager positions and 66 per cent of women in Manager positions, BMS is committed to embracing gender representation and diversity by advancing the careers of women in biopharma.
Here are the stories of some of the women at BMS who are making a difference.
