Global Women TechLeaders (GWTL) has launched the international mentoring program for the professional development of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). Through the initiative “Global Women TechLeaders Mentoring”, 23 women studying or working in the filed will have access, for free, for one year, to professional guidance and personal development. Mentors in the program are women managers with local and/or international experience in technology acquired in organizations such as NASA, Microsoft, UiPath, Atos, Societe Generale European Business Services, Bosch, MetroSystems or Gravity Free.

Reflecting back on the 3-4 weeks passed into an escalating crisis here are my take-aways:

The goals of Global Women TechLeaders Mentoring are to support, motivate and inspire the young generation to continue and develop their career in the STEM field. The 23 participants (mentees) work or study in fields such as aerospace, physics or programming. The 1-year long program involves monthly meetings with mentors, following the development goals set by the mentees and access to an international network of professionals. The mentor-mentee pairs were chosen based on the candidates’ interests and experience and the program is divided into 2 levels: Elite (mentors with over 10 years of experience) and Professional (mentors with over 5 years of experience).

The GWTL team will assist the 23 mentor-mentor pairs throughout the program, its role being to help teams reach their goals, provide resources and facilitate the feedback process on the program. The program is free and runs with the support of the voluntary involvement of mentors in the program. The complete list of mentors can be consulted online, accessing the page dedicated to Global Women TechLeaders Mentoring.

«Numerous studies show the important role that a mentor plays in the career of a professional, especially for women. Particularly in STEM, where these are under-represented, access to a feminine model that understands the challenges of the field is an opportunity for accelerated professional growth and equal opportunities. The mentors in the program are successful professionals whose passion for technology will help the participants to develop in the desired direction »

Simona Șandru, founder of the Global Women TechLeaders organization.

Global Women TechLeaders (GWTL) is a non-profit organization that promotes diversity and sustainable economic growth in partnership with other organizations, companies and universities in technical fields, in Romania and around the world. GWTL connects women involved in or passionate about exact sciences with STEM industries, supporting their professional and educational development through national and international mentoring, professional development, networking and career opportunities. For more details, visit www.globalwomenintech.com