A diversity of aspects affect women, including their ethnicity, health, economic status, age and their sexual orientation. As we begin the new millenium, we note trends such as an aging population, and increases in women's participation in the workforce, particularly for women of childbearing age. The tension between women's traditional roles and responsibilities and the demands of working in an increasingly technological society affect women's lives in a unique way. Addressing these concerns is a key strategy for government in securing women's economic equality. Participation by young women in biology and math is increasing.
Women are more likely to pursue post secondary education than are men.
There is an increase in the proportion of women taking post-secondary science and technology courses over the past 15 years. Employment Women's participation in the paid labour force has increased dramatically over the past 30 years. The proportion of women in professional occupations, business, finance, and natural and applied sciences has increased, but still does equal that of men. Efforts to increase women's representation in non-traditional occupations such as trades, which tend to pay higher wages, has resulted in some improvements. Women are far more likely than men to work part time.