This hearing is the first in a series of hearings to be held by the Subcommittee on the subject of Women in Science and Technology. The purpose of this hearing is to recognize women who have pursued and succeeded in scientific and technical careers. This hearing does not focus on the problems that women face throughout the educational system and in the workplace, although these problems are very real. On average women earn less than men, even if they have the same experience and credentials.
Women have difficulty advancing their careers, and often face discrimination.
Despite these statistics, all of the news is not bad. The purpose of this hearing is to step back and to affirm that despite these hardships, women can and do choose this route and succeed. The witnesses at this hearing bear testimony to that fact. They are a diverse group and have found success in a variety of science and technology-related careers, including private sector companies, the government, and academics. They serve as role models, forging a path for other women to follow.