Geoscience and Remote Sensing Magazine Column

Recent Articles

A Glimpse at the Women Mentoring Women Program From a Mentor/Mentee Perspective

The Women Mentoring Women (WMW) Program offers a transformative mentorship experience, examined here through the lens of one dedicated mentor-mentee pair. By highlighting their firsthand reflections, this article showcases how structured, supportive relationships can bolster professional development, encourage leadership skills, and strengthen retention among women in STEM. Dr. McNairn’s perspective reveals the personal and professional enrichment gained through guiding emerging talent, while Dr. Toca’s account highlights increased confidence, a deeper understanding of career pathways, and the value of networking opportunities. Together, their stories underscore the importance of fostering inclusive environments that encourage open dialogue, skill-building, and knowledge exchange. Although centered on a single partnership, the program’s broader framework—encompassing regular check-ins, tailored goal-setting, and community support—emerges as a scalable model that can be adapted across various educational and professional contexts. In doing so, the WMW Program demonstrates the far-reaching impact of well-designed mentorship in promoting equity, resilience, and meaningful career progression. ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10685153

Career Development Activities for African Women, Students, and Young Professionals in Geoscience and Remote Sensing

The Women in Africa (WIA) initiative is a dynamic platform dedicated to bridging the gender gap in geoscience and remote sensing across Africa. Driven by a commitment to inclusivity, WIA equips women, students, and emerging professionals with the mentorship, resources, and industry connections they need to succeed. Through multiple career development webinars, participants have gained crucial technical skills while developing the confidence and leadership qualities essential for advancing in STEM fields. WIA’s emphasis on community engagement fosters innovative thinking and empowers members to address pressing regional challenges such as climate change, disaster management, and sustainable resource allocation. By celebrating role models and sharing success stories, the initiative offers invaluable inspiration, showing how women can reshape Africa’s scientific landscape and open new pathways in remote sensing and beyond. ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10582802

Empowerment in Progress: Celebrating the Growth of GRSS’ Women Mentoring Women Program

The underrepresentation of women in STEM leadership is a pressing issue with social, financial, and ethical implications. Despite an increase in women earning STEM degrees, their presence in STEM jobs remains below a quarter of the workforce. To address this gap, the Women Mentoring Women (WMW) program was established within the IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society. Since its 2017 inception, WMW has provided mentorship and networking opportunities for women in geoscience and remote sensing. In 2023, the program expanded its reach, funding members to attend global conferences and sponsoring events like the 3-Minute Thesis Competition. Looking to 2024, WMW plans to streamline its mentorship matching process and offer workshops and online events to empower women in STEM, demonstrating its commitment to fostering gender diversity and inclusivity in the field. Read more about the WMW program and their ongoing efforts in this article! ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10461611

Read More