Blackberry Launches New Initiative to Support Women in STEM Fields

According to the United States Department of Commerce’s Economics & Statistics Administration, women comprise 48 percent of the workforce, yet they only comprise 24 percent of the “STEM” (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) careers. While there is no one definitive reason to account for this difference, the ESA reports that there are several hypotheses to explain this difference—lack of female STEM role models, gender stereotypes, and the possibility that STEM careers “may not be as accommodating to people cycling in and out of the workforce to raise families.” 

Blackberry has decided that it is high time to do something about this disparity between men and women, launching the Blackberry Scholars Program. The program is designed to provide full scholarships to four-year universities to “outstanding women globally” who are pursuing STEM educational paths. In particular, the program is aimed at helping those women who are pursuing mobile computing. They are also offering mentorship opportunities for those selected.

Alicia Keys, the global creative director of Blackberry, stated that women are “under-represented” in STEM careers and is “proud” that Blackberry is “demonstrating leadership” in women’s educational and career opportunities. Keys says of the initiative: “It’s important to connect the dots for young women in high school and college and show them that careers in science and technology are within their reach.” She went on to state that “…when women do land these jobs, it’s vital they receive the tools and support they need to advance in their careers.”

By enabling women to pursue these careers, Blackberry will be empowering women to take control of their financial future. Women in STEM jobs earn an average of $31.11 per hour; whereas, women in non-STEM jobs earn an average of $19.26. Like every other field, there is a wage gap between men and women (14 percent), but the wages are still significantly higher than in non-STEM fields.

Nominations for these scholarships must be submitted by June 16.