According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the percentage of women in STEM fields hovers around 26%. Poonam Gill, an instructional designer at MISO, isn't surprised. She noticed the absence of women in her field after graduating from Purdue University.

“I majored in electrical engineering and know what it’s like to be the only girl in my math and science classes, and the only female engineer in the room,” she stated.

Fifteen years ago, Poonam decided to help close the gap by becoming a STEM education advocate. She began volunteering in schools across the Midwest to engage more youth in STEM. She worked with students ages 4-14 on engineering concepts and problem-solving skills. She then transitioned into nonprofit leadership.

After joining MISO in 2021, she continued her non-profit work in the Indianapolis area. After several years, that work has come to fruition with the launch of the Girls IN STEM Academy. This groundbreaking, all-girls public school for grades K-8 opens in the fall of 2024.

The real work to launch the school began in 2019. Poonam knew success required forming close partnerships. She worked closely with several local organizations including between Paramount Schools of Excellence, Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, Every Girl Can STEM® and Purdue Polytechnic High School. Together, the group turned their goals into reality.

When the doors open this fall, the Girls IN STEM Academy will offer students a first-class STEM focused education. Students will have access to diverse role models and hands-on experiential learning. They will also learn about the importance and relevance of STEM in society. The academy will equip girls with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in STEM fields.

Poonam believes the work necessary to increase the number of women in STEM jobs must begin at an early age. She knows firsthand that it takes allies working together to build a pipeline of STEM talent.

In addition to the Girls IN STEM Academy Board of Advisors, Poonam serves on the Board of Directors for the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana and Every Girl Can STEM®. Her dedication and commitment to educating young girls have made, and will make, significant strides in closing the gender gap in STEM.

We are proud to call her a MISO employee.