Lecture Hall 325 transformed into a launchpad for future innovators on Thurs. Feb. 12, as students gathered for a meeting featuring Gorman alumna Blair Bigelow May.
From space strategy to STEM education, May shared her journey and inspired young women to see their own futures among the stars.
Women in STEM is dedicated to promoting and giving opportunities to high school girls interested in STEM fields. One of the biggest components of this is highlighting the successes of other women pursuing these careers as well. Blair Bigelow May, a member of the class of 2010, along with her assistant, were brought in to speak on their passions for Space Leadership and STEM education.
“Blair was telling us about her company called Bigelow Aerospace, which she runs with her co-founder, Maria Mathews,” said Isabelle Giger ‘28, an attendee of the meeting, “Maria focuses on physics, while Blair runs the business side of the company.” She explained how May’s company was the first-ever space station company and pioneer of expandable habitat technology, and how it remains the only private company in the world with a module on the International Space Station.
Many students were surprised to discover the extent to which STEM disciplines are integrated into diverse professional fields.“[Blair] talked a lot about the intersection of STEM with business and how powerful it can be to have exposure to two different fields,” said Sophia Lagomarsino ’26, a board member of the club. “Maybe you want to be a doctor but you got a minor in business or did a dual program, that can actually be very beneficial for you.”
May continued to speak on what it is like to be a woman in a male-dominated field, and how there are many instances where she’s been disrespected or not taken as seriously. “It was cool to see how women in the STEM field have been able to work through that and stand up for themselves,” Lagomarsino said.
In the end, the meeting was an incredible opportunity for high school girls to explore the possibilities within the STEM industry.
“Even for those not interested in the STEM field, everyone can find something to take away from WiSTEM meetings like this one,” Lagomarsino said.
