In spite of decades of national attention to the under-representation of women in science and engineering, women in the US are still not projected to enter technical fields in sufficient numbers to provide for a diverse and well-trained scientific work force in the 21st century. The gender gap is largest in the physical sciences, engineering and interdisciplinary fields such as oceanography where a background in science and mathematics is required. Recent data from National Assessment of Education Progress tests indicate that science achievement levels of girls and boys are about the same at age 9, but that significant differences begin to appear during the middle school years and continue to broaden through age 17. An often-sited reason for this disparity is the lack of role models for young girls.

Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution (HBOI) employs an unusually high percentage of successful women scientists and engineers. In the Division of Biomedical Marine Research, approximately 60% of the scientists are women. In addition to a dedication to their individual disciplines, these women are committed to mentoring women and girls to successfully enter science professions. Because of our unique collection women scientists and engineers, Harbor Branch is taking a leading role in developing innovation education programs for women and girls in science and technology.

The Women and Girls in Science and Engineering initiative at Harbor Branch focuses on improving representation of women in the scientific and engineering work force at a range of levels (i.e. from technical jobs to professional-level research opportunities). Our work will establish a regional mentoring network of scientists, engineers, teachers, and young women with science and math potential. It will also increase the science literacy of women in the area. Currently we offer a community-college-level course that encourages women to explore and discover careers in science and technology. Our first summer intern funded through the Women and Girls in Science and Engineering initiative recently completed a ten-week research experience in HBOI's Aquaculture Division. Additional programs are being planned.