AUTHOR=Alghamdi Amani K. H. , Almazroa Hiya 

TITLE=Saudi women STEM pioneers: penetrating the mud ceiling

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Psychology

VOLUME=Volume 15 - 2024

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1347944

DOI=10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1347944

ISSN=1664-1078

ABSTRACT=Although researchers actively study women’s experiences in STEM fields, few do so from women’s perspective. We thematically analyzed life narrative semi-structured interview data (46-item open-ended instrument, 90–120 minutes) from N=8 STEM pioneering Saudi Arabian women careerists (mathematics, medicine, and biology) (convenience sample summer 2023). The extremely accomplished participants (all married most with children) averaged 65+ years of age, 40+ years of experience and came from the three largest Saudi provinces. Important factors influencing choosing STEM included personality traits (e.g., deep desire to academically succeed; problem focused); secondary school peer/academic learning experiences; and male family member support, especially fathers. Struggles and challenges (often viewed as opportunities) included the mud ceiling (not glass); male colleagues’ harsh, prejudiced treatment; and unsupportive administration. Participants were research driven and willing to relocate, re-educate, and change directions to establish and advance their career. Succinctly, “Do not feel you are no one because you are a woman. Choose a STEM field you love no matter how many challenges you face. Prove yourself.”