walking the path of women trailblazers

Since the 1980s, March has been Women’s History Month! It is a month packed full of history and accomplishments to commemorate the original International Women’s Day, which took place in 1911. Today’s blog post spotlights Hollaway’s COO Claire Garvin, and her journey to become a scientist. Be sure to read on to see how a young girl in Missouri grew up to become a Marine Biologist!

At Hollaway, it is rare for a day to go by that we do not celebrate the importance of Women in History and Women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Our company has a rooted history in strong, smart women both in professional and technical roles, including business owners, scientists, designers, communications experts, and marketing professionals. Hollaway offers opportunities for employees to lead the way in Science, Technology, Engineering, (arts), and Mathematics (STE(a)M). At Hollaway, women make up about 70% of our staff; however, women make up only 28% of the U.S. workforce in STEM fields.

While celebrating the achievements of women all year long is important, it is valuable to recognize the many sacrifices made by women in history and women today to forge a more fair and equal space for females. Crucial to all children, it is beneficial for them to expand their sense of what is possible!

Is the medical field for you? In 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman in the U.S. to be granted a medical doctor (MD) degree.
Are the armed services calling you? Harriet Tubman was the first woman to lead an armed military operation in the U.S.
Thinking politics is your thing? In 1932, Hattie Caraway was the first woman to be elected to the U.S. Senate.
Want to be a scientist or an engineer? Since 1970, representation of women in STEM has increased 40%. Mae Jemison, an American engineer, physician, and former NASA astronaut, was the first black woman to travel to space in 1992.
Are you business minded? Madam C.J. Walker used her chemistry skills to develop a product to grow hair. She became the first female self-made millionaire with her line of “Walkers Wonderful Hair Grower” focusing on African American beauty and cosmetics.

The groundbreaking achievements by these women (and countless others) have shone a light on the possibilities and have paved a road to more access and opportunities for young women and girls.

Me? I wanted to be a scientist...a Marine Biologist to be exact! Starting with my fish tanks full of fish and turtles, to wading through creeks, on to tagging endangered sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico, then wetland surveys throughout the country, I have always had a deep-rooted interest in biology and science. Studying and learning about different animals and plants started with bug cages, butterfly nets, and always being muddy. How a little girl in Missouri surrounded by land only dreamt of the ocean is still a mystery. Thinking I could make a career out of this was an unimaginable dream. To further manifest my dream of being a Marine Biologist, I prepared a presentation for my parents to allow me to travel to New Orleans to shadow a Marine Biologist for 7th grade career day. Thankfully, they supported me (and funded my expedition) all the way to the Aquarium of the Americas. Seeing behind the scenes of animal care of turtles, sharks, fish...well, that sealed the deal, and I was off to Galveston Island to study Marine Biology! 20+ years later...I have gained knowledge and experience in Alaska to Alabama and beyond. Although my shoes look a lot different these days...and are a lot less muddy, I will always hold that wonder of the ocean. I have had the benefit of meeting and learning from women in STEM throughout my career and I only hope to provide that same level of guidance for future WOMEN IN STEM.

Young STEM minds in action

Ally Altemose, Director of Environmental Services...a budding wetland scientist.

Claire Garvin...Experiencing the Great North during a pipeline project in AK. 

Claire Garvin...Living that Marine Biologist life tagging sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico.

Claire Garvin...Living that Marine Biologist life tagging sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico.

Tara Davis, Marketing and Creative Service Team Lead...Launching a weather balloon at OU.

Molly Lenihan and Kasey Clarke, Hollaway Environmental Scientists, sporting that Hollaway pink while conducting stream assessments

Over the next month, reach out to your favorite women! Let them know what inspires you about them and show them your gratitude!

• https://houstonlibrary.org/home - Women’s History Book List
• https://www.stemwomen.com/popular-books-for-women-in-stem
• https://womenshistorymonth.gov/
• https://blog.ed.ted.com/tag/womens-history-month/