Women make up half of the total college-educated workforce. However, in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics — or STEM — fields, women only make up 28% of the workforce. The disparity is even more pronounced when it comes to women of color.
Cheryl Cooper is looking to help close that gap. She's the founder of Women in Security Mentors, an organization based in the Kansas City area that helps women interested in the cyber security field by providing education, workshops and professional connections. On this week's episode of Speaking Startup, we speak with Cooper about why these gaps in STEM exist and how she assists those looking to enter the field.
Plus, St. Louis entrepreneur Sarah Schlafly's search for an affordable, sustainable source of protein led her to insects. We chat with Schlafly about her company, Mighty Cricket, which makes high-protein food products out of crickets.