Empowering Women in Chemical Sciences and Engineering through Outreach: A Platform to Explore Careers in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Abstract

This paper describes a grassroots outreach program at Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), organized by women chemists and chemical engineers, for women studying chemistry and chemical engineering. This effort supports the company's belief that excellence in creativity and innovation is enhanced when its scientists and engineers bring diverse experiences and backgrounds to the teams inventing and developing novel medicines. The in-person event includes seminars, poster sessions, lab tours, a networking lunch, and a discussion panel for students from local colleges and universities. These events were designed to expose students to potential careers in the pharmaceutical industry. We present data from 275 survey respondents out of the 354 participants from the past 7 years. The survey results were overwhelmingly positive and showed that the events were particularly impactful in (1) increasing an understanding of what chemists or chemical engineers do in the pharmaceutical industry, (2) presenting a broader view of academic options, (3) building higher confidence in the students' choice of major, and (4) fostering a sense of belonging and pride to be a woman in a STEM field. These events enhanced the company's ability to attract and hire top talent, while engaging current employees as role models for the next generation of women in STEM. We believe the program is an excellent model for other companies, industries, and professional societies to attract talented students from underrepresented groups to STEM fields.