Why are there so few women in STEM? The number of women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields is rising. However, females in these industries still make up only a small portion of STEM workers when compared to men. More often than not, being the only female in the room isn't the only challenge women in STEM face. Some of the main roadblocks include lack of mentorship, confidence, and experiencing isolation as if the main message still is "this isn't for girls". Today in the show, Arlene welcomes STEMinist Dr. Deepali Palta as she takes us back to what sparked her interest in a STEM career, the reality of being a female in these areas, the many opportunities choosing the STEM pathways can bring to your professional development, and much more. We hope you enjoy this insightful conversation as much as we did! Don't forget to tune into episode 11 where Arlene shares the three categories of changes you'd have to make in your life if you want to get closer to where you want to be. Find the episode here. In this episode, we cover:-What STEM stands for.-What a STEMinist is.-Challenges of working in STEM.-Transitioning from individual contributor to manager.-Tips for succeeding in a STEM career.-How to advocate for women in STEM. Resources and links mentioned in this episode:-Arlene's book, You Deserve To Love Your Job is now available in paperback and Kindle. Get your copy here!-Join the Crew - Arlene's private email group where she shares tips, resources, freebies, and more to help you love your work and enjoy your life. -Subscribe to Arlene's Youtube channel here!-Check out the merch here! Connect with Dr. Palta:-Connect wit Dr. Deepali Palta via Linkedin. Connect with Arlene:-Follow her on Instagram @arlene_pace_green.-Visit her website at www.arlenepacegreen.com-Enjoying what you hear? Follow and leave a review HERE. More about Dr. Deepali Palta:Deepali was born to a pediatrician and a teacher in a house that highly valued education. She went on to pursue an education in engineering – earning a BS and MS in Engineering in India and a Ph.D. in Material Science & Engineering from Georgia Tech. Her career journey has been a fantastic non-linear path of critical experiences spanning the entire enterprise, including innovation, annual plan delivery, foresights & technology scouting, sustainability, strategy, portfolio management and organizational capability across diverse business constructs and multiple geographies. Each role has prepared me for bigger challenges leading to her current assignment to lead Value Transformation and Digitization at Kellogg. She is a lifelong STEMinist and asks “what if” and “why not” to inspire disruptive thinking. She is committed to sustainability, diversity and unlocking the potential of others.