With International Day of Women and Girls in Science being marked this month, the spotlight is on the vital role women and girls play in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
Observed on 11 February, the day highlights women’s contributions, encourages girls to pursue scientific careers and works toward closing the gender gap.
Despite progress, science has historically been a male-dominated field. Women bring diverse perspectives but remain underrepresented, making days like this especially important.
Local Women Inspiring STEM Careers
Katie, a Narangba local, is a multidisciplinary medical scientist at Sunshine Coast Hospital, working across biochemistry, haematology, transfusion and microbiology. She holds a four-year degree in Medical Laboratory Science and completed the Pathology Queensland graduate program before securing her permanent role.
“Science hasn’t always studied the female body as closely as the male body,” Katie said, “It’s important to have girls in science to advocate for women’s health, to increase workplace diversity and to bring fresh ideas.
“Days like this are important as they highlight the wide variety of careers in science – from medical roles to research – and encourage girls to consider it as a career option.”
Katie’s interest in science began when she was a student at Mueller College, where she studied chemistry and biology and completed a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance. This allowed her to gain early hospital experience and inspired her move towards a career in laboratory science.
“I love the versatility that comes with a career in science,” she said. “Every day for me is different. I am able to hone and improve my skills whilst also being exposed to new problems and experiences each day.”
Young female students continue to be encouraged into STEM, including current Year 12 Mueller College student Lienkie, who is studying chemistry, aerospace, physics and specialist maths.
“I see very few girls in aerospace,” Lienkie said. “During work experience at Aviation Australia and General Electric, I saw around 50 AMEs and they were all men.
“I think encouraging girls towards a career in science is good because it can be intimidating, and having more diverse perspectives approaching a problem leads to better solutions.”
Find out more about Women and Girls in Science Day.
Read more stories from The North Lakes Guide print magazine here:
- In the North Lakes Loop: Updates from the Community
- Eco Eve: Living a More Environmentally Friendly Life!
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Podcast Review: Wanging On Pocast
- Chasing Comet (aka Griffins Last Stand)
- Professional Surfing Returns for Biggest Gold Coast Open Yet
- Organic Gardening in February
- Tilapia in South East Queensland – A Great Target for Kids
- The Lakes College Scores Third Consecutive NAPLAN Hat Trick
- Helping Your Kids Transition Into High School
- Wildlife Wonders of Moreton Bay
- Music in the Park Event Heads To Warner
- Brendale VIEW Community and Educational Focus In 2026
- Escape to Nature at Bunyaville Conservation Park
- Turkey and Cranberry Burgers
- Act 1 Theatre Opens New Season with Dark Thriller
- Grants to Help Moreton Bay Communities Thrive
- Moreton Bay Expo Returns
- Deception Bay’s Early Influencer
- Reimagine Your Neighbourhood with Artist Phoebe Paradise
- Caboolture Community Choir Calls for New Director
- A New Method For Open Mics in Brendale
