HD6060-.A84-2008-PDF-Athena-factor-Reversing-the-brain-drain-in-science,-engineering,-and-technology

The Athena Factor: Reversing the Brain Drain in Science, Engineering, and Technology
HBR Research Report
FIGURE 8.4
Why Women Leave
40
39% 38%
30
27%
20
10
0
Extreme work pressure Hostile macho culture Compensation
cultures and extreme work pressures are cited more often than a disappointing compensation
package as reasons for leaving SET jobs.
The finding that half of SET women abandon their field is particularly problematic since these
are uniquely qualified and unusually committed women. Many devoted years to acquiring their
specialized skill set. The fact that antigens in SET cultures force them to give up on what they so
passionately believe in is deeply disturbing.
Take Miranda, who recently earned a PhD in chemical engineering and now holds a prestigious
postdoc position at an East Coast university. Despite numerous obstacles thrown up by
unsupportive teachers and skeptical parents, she made it through high school and college with
her love of science intact and embarked on her PhD intending to become an academic. However,
instead of strengthening her resolve, her experiences in graduate school have caused her
commitment to waver.
FIGURE 8.5
Women Who Quit Want On-Ramps
80
78%
60
58%
64%
40
20
0
Science Engineering Technology
52