Though she may have studied a Bachelor in Mathematics, Jessica Pritchard has never been the mathematical type. This Analyst, Demand Coordinator and Operations Superintendendent has been named one of Australia’s official Superstars of STEM.
WesTrac Strategic Pricing Manager Jessica Pritchard has been named a Superstar of STEM, one of 60 brilliant women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics from around Australia.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews this week (Thursday 3 December 2020) officially announced the 60 women chosen for Science & Technology Australia’s (STA) game-changing Superstars of the STEM program in 2021-22.
The program aims to position leading women in STEM careers as expert commentators in the media, thus creating visibility of the opportunities and pathways available.
STA Chief Executive Officer Misha Schubert said the program would provide the Superstars of STEM with stronger skills and confidence to step into the expert commentary roles in the media.
“It’s hard to be what you can’t see,” Misha said. “Women are still seriously under-represented in STEM leadership roles.”
“The Superstars of STEM program sets out to smash stereotypes of what a scientist, technologist, engineer or mathematician look like – these powerful role models show girls that STEM is for them.
“We can’t thank the Australian Government enough for its strong support of this important program, which is already having a profound impact.
“Sustaining this type of program for the long-term is more important than ever amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on women in the STEM workforce.”
Jessica said she was thrilled to have been chosen from a very competitive national field.
“I’ve been lucky to have some great mentors and role models in my career, but examples of other women with STEM qualifications are few and far between,” she said.
“I’m hoping that the newly appointed SuperStars can help pave the way for younger women looking to do great things within STEM industries to understand the full scope of what’s available.”
Supported by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, these next 60 Superstars of STEM will participate in the program in 2021 and 2022.