According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of women computer professionals has fallen between 1990 and 1997 from 35.4 percent to 29.1 percent. A National Science Foundation study indicates that although women make up 45 percent of the work force, they constitute less than 35 percent of high-tech jobs. Other studies indicate girls often show aptitude for science and math in grade school, but drop out of classes during middle and high school. Researchers think stereotypes and a lack of societal encouragement contribute to the gap, according to a foundation study. Women who do make it into high-tech fields drop out at twice the rate of men, according to the National Research Council.
Experts think feelings of isolation and a lack of respect on the job are to blame.
She wants to be an electrical engineer. Its officials say they've created a ladder system of mentors that promotes interest in science, debunks stereotypes and boosts self-esteem. There, they can see women succeeding as biomedical researchers and computer designers. Her club dissected everything from squids to televisions. She said being one of only three girls in a physics class of 35 at Reed made her aware of the disparity.