Walorski helps found, co-chair first congressional Women in STEM Caucus

U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-IN) recently launched the bipartisan Women in STEM Caucus to increase the presence of women and underrepresented minorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

“I’m excited to help launch the bipartisan Women in STEM Caucus and work with my colleagues to change the landscape of American innovation so all ships can rise,” Rep. Walorski said on Jan. 30. “By expanding access and encouraging girls of all ages to explore STEM fields, we can create more jobs and opportunity in our communities and open doors for them to achieve their full potential.”

The congresswoman was joined by fellow caucus co-chairs U.S. Reps. Debbie Lesko (R-AZ), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), and Haley Stevens (D-MI). The caucus currently has 13 members from both sides of the aisle, including U.S. Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Troy Balderson (R-OH).

“STEM education is a driving force behind our nation’s 21st century economy, strengthening our workforce through hands-on learning, technical training, and real-world application of the skills required in cutting-edge jobs,” said Rep. Walorski. “That’s especially true in northern Indiana, a manufacturing hub that depends on innovation and skill to build made-in-America products.”

The newly formed caucus has garnered the support of Melanie Kornides, an assistant professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing; Dr. Kelly Mack, vice president for undergraduate STEM education and executive director of Project Kaleidoscope at the Association of American Colleges and Universities; and Lauren Brookmeyer, president of the Science Coalition and director of government relations at Stony Brook University.