How women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions describe the benefits of belonging to a professional network : a multiple case study.

This multiple case study investigated how women in STEM professions describe the benefits and support of belonging to a professional network. Existing literature suggests that women in STEM can benefit from participation in professional networks but does not explicitly name the effective characteristics. Five women in STEM fields participated. I examined their involvement in professional networks for impacts on their professional and personal lives. Further, I explored how their involvement influenced their inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, idealized influence, and individualized consideration—critical components of transformational leadership theory. Four key findings emerged. First, participants believed they benefited from access to resources and opportunities, including support and inclusion, because they were involved in professional networks. Second, participants believed they experienced personal and professional growth, including integration of networking lessons, early engagement, and long-term benefits because they were involved in professional networks. Third, participants expressed that the power mentorship was a positive benefit and support of involvement in professional networks. Through the power of mentorship, they cultivated relationships that garnered professional and emotional benefits. Fourth, participants within and who had not experienced professional networks displayed internal motivation, initiative, and a clear sense of purpose that fueled their transformative leadership behaviors. This research underscored the significant benefits women in STEM professions derive from active involvement in professional networks, promoting professional growth and personal development in some instances. The research also highlighted a noteworthy trend, women in STEM view professional networks as advantageous and actively work to implement them in their communities. The study participants recommended that those aspiring to STEM professions and individuals from underserved backgrounds could acquire knowledge, skills, and abilities through programs offering tutoring, mentoring, and preparation for participation in professional networking. The exculpated stories of the participants emphasized the positive impact of professional networks on women in STEM, described the benefits, and underscored their potential to extend beyond STEM careers.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ed.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Doctoral

Grantor

Baylor University.

Year dc:date.issued

2023

Author dc:creator

• Nelson, Tammra C., 1962-

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Guerra, Jennifer J., 1970-

• Access to opportunities.
• Charisma.
• Idealized influence.
• Individualized consideration.
• Inspirational motivation.
• Intellectual stimulation.
• Internal motivation.
• Professional growth.
• Personal growth.
• Professional development.
• Professional networks.
• Purpose.
• Transformational leadership.
• Women in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) professions.

Statement dc:rights

• Baylor University works are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. Contact libraryquestions@baylor.edu for inquiries about permission.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/2104/12940

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:baylor-ir.tdl.org:2104/12940