Science, Technology Professions Showing Mixed Progress for Women

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Growth over the past two decades for women in scientific, technological, engineering and mathematical (STEM) jobs has seen uneven progress, according to a report from the Commission on Professionals in Science and Technology (CPST).

Analyzing employment data of women in STEM professions from 1983 to 2003, the commission found women gaining in the percentage of jobs held in the social and natural sciences, but only slight changes in their rate of employment in engineering. They also found a decline in the share of positions held by women in mathematics and computer sciences.

Officials say these are disappointing findings for STEM work force policy-makers and others …