STEM after COVID-19

The COVID‑19 pandemic marked a profound turning point for STEM. As societies faced unprecedented disruption, STEM professionals played a critical role in the global response – from vaccine development and public health modelling to digital infrastructure and remote working technologies.

 

This heightened visibility reshaped perceptions of STEM careers and accelerated changes in how and where work is done.

 

This report explores how the pandemic reshaped women’s participation in STEM, examining whether increased visibility, flexible working practices, and shifting skills demands translated into lasting change. Drawing on pre‑ and post‑COVID data across workforce participation, qualifications, and STEM education pathways (GCSEs and A levels), it provides a clear picture of how trends have evolved during and after the pandemic.