Women in Crafton Hills College STEM programs - Crafton Hills College

Publish Date: Feb. 24, 2025

CHC STEM Major Katherine Granados

Since 2006 women have out-performed men in California’s college degree attainment. And women’s educational dominance over men’s in the state has continued to increase over the years. However, women remain underrepresented in attaining degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, commonly referred to as STEM.[1] 

But four Roadrunner women have defied stereotypes that STEM fields are not for women. Yakira Huff, Jazmyn Garcia, Katherine Granados, and Jo-Ann Lumintang exemplify energetic and capable women students currently working to complete programs in STEM disciplines. 

When each of them was asked what motivates her, Yakira Huff responded, “As a woman in STEM, pushing the boundaries of what people think is possible for women to accomplish, while being my true self, motivates me to keep working hard at my goals.” She hopes to expand the knowledge in her field of interest, the study of fungi, and encourage other women to enter this discipline. 

Jazmyn Garcia claimed to be motivated by her “…passion for discovery, knowledge, and the potential impact of her work on others.” Jo-Ann Lumintang explained that it “would be crazy and really cool” to enter a field that has been male dominated and make discoveries that could help the world. Katherine Granados added that her motivation is to become a scientist in a field that excites her. 

This group of STEM scholars had advice for women who are – or might be -- interested in choosing STEM studies in college. All four agreed that women should feel comfortable choosing a STEM field of study, although the work is challenging and they might encounter opposition. They all agreed that you can be yourself and be a successful scientist or technology specialist. As Jazmyn Garcia put it, “You can be both emotional and analytical and have an impact. Your personality doesn’t need to go away to prosper in STEM; if anything, it can enhance your journey.”

For information about women in college STEM programs, see “Guide to College & Careers for Women in Stem” at www.Study.com.

[1]1 Johnson, Hans, “Gender Imbalances in STEM,” Public Policy Institute of California, June 21, 2018