Despite a concerted effort to encourage women to pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), problems still persist. According to one recent study, 60 percent of women working in Silicon Valley have been the target of sexually harassing and sexually discriminatory conduct in the workplace. Regardless of where a STEM employee resides, however, they may still feel the sting of sexual harassment. Cherry Hill employment lawyers say that gender imbalance in leadership positions at STEM companies nationwide could be to blame.
Only an estimated 19 percent of executives at tech companies are women according to one recent survey. Similarly, the same data demonstrates that despite women comprising a majority of the American population, just 36 percent of entry-level positions at these same companies are held by women. Participants in the study included 132 companies that employ more than 4.6 million workers. Additionally, 34,000 employees completed a more comprehensive survey devoted to their own unique experiences of gender discrimination in the workplace.
For women working in STEM fields, the lack of female representation at the executive level and a lack of female coworkers generally can be both daunting and isolating. When a male colleague or manager behaves inappropriately, women may feel they have nowhere to turn. Despite their discomfort, it is important that victims of sexual harassment make their voices heard. Companies that fail to take steps to protect members of their workforce from sexual harassment can be held liable in court.
Women Are Subject to Sexual Harassment While Pursuing a STEM Degree
Other data suggests that sexual harassment of women begins even prior to their entry to the STEM workforce, however. Female graduate students at several prominent universities have alleged that they were groped, subjected to inappropriate sexual comments, or otherwise discriminated against based on their gender while pursuing their STEM-related degrees.
Cherry Hill Employment Lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. Seek Justice for Victims of Sexual Harassment in New Jersey
If you or a loved one has been sexually harassed while working at a STEM-related job in New Jersey, the Cherry Hill employment lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. will investigate your claim. Contact us online or call our Red Bank, New Jersey offices at 732-842-6500 or our Marlton, New Jersey offices at 856-985-9800 to schedule an appointment with one of our Cherry Hill sexual harassment lawyers today.