Supporting Women in STEM Careers: The Role of Inclusive Employee Benefits

Businesses are reconsidering how they promote inclusion and diversity in the workplace more than ever before. This shift is not just about fairness; it is about encouraging innovation, addressing gender wage gaps, and ensuring long-term business success.

Across industries, companies are recognising the critical need to close the gender gap in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Allianz, as part of its longstanding commitment to gender equality in the workplace, has signed the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles and supports workplace diversity through its Employee Network for Equal Opportunities (Allianz NEO).

Women make up nearly 47.7% of the workforce, yet they hold only 29.2% of STEM jobs. The challenge isn’t just getting more women into STEM careers, but also to retain them in such fields. Addressing these challenges requires more than recruitment. It demands a workplace culture that supports and retains female talent while ensuring fair salary expectations.

The landscape of workplace benefits is evolving, with a growing focus on inclusivity and employee support. Why is there a gender gap in STEM, and how do inclusive policies help overcome it? How can organisations ensure these benefits truly attract, retain, and empower women in STEM careers?

Despite women comprising over half of all tertiary graduates globally, they account for only 35% of STEM graduates, a figure that has remained stagnant for the past decade. This underrepresentation extends into the workforce, where systemic barriers persist.

The disparity becomes even more pronounced in leadership roles. While women represent 29.4% of entry-level STEM workers, their representation drops significantly to just 12.4% at the C-suite level. These barriers to female leadership highlight the systemic obstacles preventing women from advancing in STEM careers.

A lack of female mentors, gender bias in education, workplace discrimination, and wage gap statistics continue to hold women back. Creating a more equitable STEM workforce starts with action. Companies that implement meaningful policies can build a stronger, more inclusive workplace where women have the support they need to succeed.

Women in STEM fields often face unique challenges that make it harder to enter, stay, and progress in their careers. Companies that invest in inclusive workplace benefits not only support gender diversity but also drive innovation and long-term success. In fact, studies show that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to have above-average profitability compared to those in the fourth quartile.

By implementing benefits that address the unique challenges women in STEM face, businesses can create an environment where female employees can thrive, progress, and contribute fully. A well-structured benefits program, like those outlined in Allianz Partners' Global Benefits, helps attract top talent, boosts retention rates, and fosters a culture of inclusion that strengthens the entire organisation.

Creating an inclusive workplace starts with providing the right support systems. Companies that offer targeted benefits can help women in STEM overcome barriers and build long-term careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Key initiatives that make a meaningful difference include:

• Mentorship & Sponsorship Programs
• Childcare & Family Support
• Flexible Work Arrangements
• Leadership Development & Training
• Equal Pay & Promotion Policies

To foster an inclusive workplace, businesses should provide employees with access to well-being resources and structured support programs. Companies can take inspiration from organisations like Allianz Partners, which offers ready-to-use tools through its Employee Care Hub to help employers support the health and well-being of their teams

A diverse and supportive workplace doesn’t just benefit current employees; it also plays a crucial role in supporting women in STEM careers by creating role models and inclusive environments. When companies prioritise mentorship, career progression, and flexible policies, they create role models who inspire young STEM girls to see STEM careers as a viable and welcoming path.

Workplaces that actively highlight female leadership, invest in outreach programs, and promote STEM education help break long-standing gender stereotypes. Creating an environment where women can thrive, businesses play a crucial role in closing the gender gap, not just today but for the future of the industry.

Creating an inclusive workplace is a strategic advantage. Companies that invest in benefits supporting women in STEM see higher retention rates, stronger innovation, and improved financial performance. Diverse teams bring new perspectives, solve problems more effectively, and contribute to a more dynamic workplace.

By prioritising policies that promote inclusivity and career growth, businesses support their employees and future-proof their success in an evolving global economy. Investing in benefits for women in STEM helps close the gender gap and creates lasting change in the industry. #WomenInSTEM #GirlsInScience.