The WiSTEM2D Project launched in 2015 with the aim of increasing representation of women in STEM2D fields. This initiative supports and inspires female students of all ages in pursuit of careers and their studies in STEM2D. In its third year now, the programme in Ireland is underpinned by 13 global partnerships with academic institutions in the US, Japan, and South America.
In 2016, the University of Limerick and Johnson & Johnson formally launched their significant collaborative education programme to support and encourage women to pursue educational opportunities in STEM2D (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Manufacturing and Design). This programme focuses on the university sector, with the goal of supporting female students as they progress to STEM2D careers.
The programme consists of WiSTEM2D Awards and Team Project Awards. Both programmes provide opportunities for students to meet with female role models from industry, be mentored by Johnson and Johnson industry leaders, visit various J&J worksites and develop their peer networks. The WiSTEM2D programme is focused on developing and implementing high impact strategies to support female students undertaking STEM2D degree courses. It aims to build on UL’s ongoing work and to expand the reach and quality of STEM education in third level.
The project aims to assist female undergraduate students investigating issues that hinder female students participating in STEM at undergraduate level and pursuing a career in STEM field.
The project also aims to understand the experiences of Irish female students participating in STEM2D programmes through research conducted by EPI*STEM, the National Centre for STEM.