Women are responsible for countless achievements in the science, technology, engineering and math fields. Among the lesser-known examples are:
• Gerturde B. Elion developed innovative research methods that would lead to the development of the AIDS drug AZT.
• Actress Hedy Lamarr co-invented an early technique for spread spectrum communications, a key to many forms of wireless communication including cell phones and computers.
• Amanda Theodosia Jones developed the vacuum canning process to preserve food. Her process became the standard canning method in this country following its patent grant in 1873.
The second Women’s History Month Celebration, to be held at 6:30 p.m. March 30 at the N.C. Museum of History, will feature a dynamic panel to explore the challenges and opportunities women face in so-called STEM fields: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
The keynote address will be delivered by Gloria Blackwell, Director of Grants and Fellowships for American Association of University Women (AAUW). The group’s groundbreaking report, Why So Few? Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, examines why young women do not pursue careers in these areas.
The N.C. Council for Women is a co-sponsor of the event, which will feature a panel discussion ranging from women currently working in technology to a university student pursuing a science degree. Our goal is to identify the challenges that women in STEM fields face, and look at the actions to level the playing field so that young women can have the equal opportunity to pursue any career they desire.
The event is free and open to the public, but registration is requested. Call the Museum RSVP line at 919-807-7992 to reserve your seat.