The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed on February 11, is a global initiative led by the United Nations to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in many scientific fields. This day raises awareness about gender disparities in STEM, celebrates the achievements of women scientists, and encourages young girls to pursue careers in these fields.
Shawnnah Monterrey, founder of BeanStock Ventures, shared her journey from studying biomedical and structural engineering to becoming a leader in medical device innovation. She reflected on the challenges she faced as a woman in STEM, from navigating career roadblocks to recognizing systemic biases in hiring and funding. After holding leadership roles at companies like Illumina, Medtronic, and Carl Zeiss Meditec, she founded BeanStock Ventures to help medical device startups fast-track FDA approval. Now, she’s working to raise a $10 million fund to support underfunded but high-potential healthcare innovations, striving to create a more equitable path for the next generation of entrepreneurs in science and technology.
Connect with Shawnnah on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shawnnahmonterrey
