The STEM Demystified Digital Portal is now live, a new home for real STEM stories made for teachers, educators, and curious young learners. Built to make STEM feel closer, friendlier, and genuinely possible, the portal brings together global role‑model stories, interactive exploration, and classroom‑ready inspiration. It’s a growing resource designed to help children see themselves in STEM, and to give educators an easy way to bring real‑world representation into lessons. Explore the portal at stemdemystified.com.
Welcome to another edition of STEM Demystified, a project to tackle women under-representation in STEM. This weekly Newsletter showcases how women are conquering science, technology, engineering, and mathematics worldwide.
Meet Emily Vodovnik, a dynamic force in the field of data science whose passion for computing began at a young age. While many of her classmates preferred gym class, Emily gravitated toward computing, proudly embracing her inner “nerd” (as she describes). Her love for math and technology eventually led her to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, where she also discovered a passion for coding.
Today, she applies her skills as an Associate Data Scientist at DTN, analysing weather data to help businesses prepare for upcoming storms, a role that perfectly blends her fascination with the weather and her love of data.
Emily’s journey wasn’t just shaped by her academic achievements, but also by the influence of her grandparents, who nurtured her curiosity and love of learning from a young age. From solving puzzles with her grandma to attending sports events with her grandpa, they were her biggest cheerleaders. Now, let’s explore Emily’s inspiring story of growth, resilience, and the pursuit of her passion in STEM
What was your trajectory from school to where you currently are professionally/academically?
Growing up in Minnesota, I had the opportunity to take college courses for credit while I was in high school. This program, called PSEO, provides students the flexibility to take college level classes while tuition and fees are paid for by the state. This allowed me to finish my first two years of my four-year degree before graduating high school. This launched my college career, and I was immediately faced with the “what am I going to do with my life” question that everyone goes through. STEM has always been a good fit for me as I was fortunate to take a variety of STEM courses.
Statistics stuck with me quickly, and I was able to pair that with a minor in data science that allowed me to discover my love of coding. My internship further expanded my Python and analysis experience with real applications. I graduated from college with a Bachelor’s in Statistics in May 2022 and started looking for data analysis or data science careers. I was blessed to have a few opportunities but wouldn’t be where I am had I not reached out to my LinkedIn connections. Reconnecting with an old soccer coach, one who has always supported and uplifted me, set me up with this position. To this day, he still messages me when we’re in meetings together, reminding me how cool it is for him to see me doing so well. Two years into this position, I’m still surrounded by co-workers who are patient, kind, and help me help myself.
What motivated you to get into STEM? Did you have a female role model or anyone who inspired you? If so, who?
Math and science have always been my favorite subjects growing up. It was very easy for me to pick a path within the field. At a young age, I remember my favorite class was computer class. I was embarrassed about it since most other students preferred gym class. I’m glad my love of math and computers never deterred me from pursuing this path. I’m happy to call myself a nerd (: My grandparents have influenced me to be woman I am today. They regularly took care of my brother and I growing up to help my parents. My grandma fostered my love of reading, doing puzzles, and building Legos. She was there to encourage my curiosity and exploration. With my grandpa, they were prepared for any question coming their way.
My favorite thing is that they were always there for any sports events; I always looked forward to my grandpa sauntering up to the game, coming straight from work. They are my biggest cheerleaders. I’m so grateful I can continue to share my work and accomplishments with my grandma. Although I don’t get to directly share it with my grandpa, it’s inspiring to know how proud he would be. I attended a university where the study body was mostly female. It was motivating to be surrounded by female professors and peers in STEM throughout college. We had study groups that created a bonded group that overlapped in many classes because of the small class and department sizes. Many of the women I met have stayed in contact today, creating a network of inspiring women.
What’s your most important professional/academic achievement?
Graduating and having academic success in college has been my most important academic achievement. I worked hard and graduated Summa Cum Laude. I was also inducted into the National Statistics Honorary Society, Mu Sigma Rho, and the National Math Honorary Society, Pi Mu Epsilon. The courses I took and the people I met will have a lasting impact on my life. I found myself in a variety of STEM classes, allowing me find what I enjoyed in each. The time that I had to explore options led me to this career path that has so much to offer me. The women I experienced college with inspire me daily. Many of us are in STEM and are thriving doing what they love.
Did you face any challenge throughout your professional/academic journey? How did you overcome it?
Asking for help and support was one of the hardest challenges for me to overcome. I’ve always been capable of solving problems and doing so independently. It was difficult at first to get into the habit of asking clarifying questions or for more support. It often felt like I was failing or letting down those around me.
Learning to ask questions often taught me new approaches to problems. Learning to admit that I need support has helped me learn more and faster from others than I would spending time spinning my wheels trying to gain traction. I’ve learned that “failing fast” is important. There is no need to spend more time than necessary on something that isn’t going to be worth it in the end. I am so thankful to have co-workers that are always happy to help. Having such a supportive network has allowed me to be successful in my role. Each day is another step towards being confident in my work, but I will always grow and adapt as the challenges change.
In your opinion, what needs to be done to attract more women into STEM?
From my personal experience, STEM wasn’t highly promoted in school. Thinking back, I regularly met with a girl scout troop to explore different hobbies. This would have been a good opportunity to introduce something like coding, especially since this group environment would solely be focused on the attention of the girls. Career options should be introduced at a younger age for students. Many girls want to be a vet, a nurse, or a teacher. These are all women dominated fields and most likely where girls find role models. In the US, we’re seeing a lot of transition in women’s sports. For example, the Professional Women’s Hockey League was founded in August 2023, providing many young women hockey players role models.
There are record breaking numbers of fans attending volleyball games and watching women’s basketball games. Although this isn’t related to STEM, providing female role models in this area has been a step forward. Social media also has a large influence over the lives most young people. Continuing to use these platforms to promote women role models and pairing that with exposing them to STEM opportunities will inspire women to do what they want; not just what society tells them they can do.
What advice would you give to anyone looking into a career in STEM (or those who do not consider it)?
This may be common advice, but I think it’s something that I still need to be reminded of often. The term imposter syndrome gets thrown around a lot, and for good reason. Many people are faced with the feeling of not belonging. I know that I have made leaps and bounds since I first started my career, but even now as I start a new project, I doubt myself. But I wouldn’t be here if others didn’t see my potential and where my skills fit in.
The feeling of being uncomfortable is a driving force that pushes you to grow and prove that you do belong. I’ve been told that the feeling of being an imposter never goes away, but it means you’ll be put in positions to better yourself. Besides recognizing imposter syndrome, a book I would highly recommend is “Data Feminism” by Catherine D’Ignazio and Lauren F. Klein. It does a fantastic job of explaining why we need more women in STEM.
Emily Vodovnik’s journey is truly fascinating and inspiring. From a young age, she developed a deep interest in math and computing, which set the foundation for her career in STEM. Despite feeling embarrassed in school for preferring computing classes over gym, she embraced her individuality and passion. This courage to be different and pursue her interests led her to significant achievements, including a Bachelor’s in Statistics, a successful career as an Associate Data Scientist, and the invaluable support of her mentors and family.
Emily’s story underscores the importance of encouraging children, teenagers, and even adults to celebrate their uniqueness and follow their passions. By embracing our individuality, we can contribute diverse perspectives, talents, and creativity to society. Her journey not only showcases her personal success but also highlights the critical role of support and encouragement from family and mentors. Emily’s grandparents, in particular, played a pivotal role in nurturing her curiosity and love for learning. Her story is a powerful reminder that originality and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements, inspiring many to pursue their paths in STEM and beyond. Emily, your family is undoubtedly proud of you, and your journey continues to inspire and motivate others.
