This doctoral research explores women in STEM leadership and organizational leadership dynamics. My research provides the foundation for ADIRA Enterprise’s leadership philosophy, frameworks, and executive development strategies. As a Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, my work centers on the systemic barriers that impact leadership readiness, advancement, and representation, especially for women in the STEM environments. This research informs the evidence-based methods, coaching tools, and organizational strategies I deliver to clients today.
Dissertation Overview
Status of Women in STEM Leadership Positions: An Exploratory Case Study
University of Phoenix (2022)
Author: Tamara B. Smith, DM, PMP
Abstract
Women remain significantly underrepresented in STEM leadership roles. My dissertation examined the systemic, organizational, and personal barriers that restrict women’s advancement in engineering environments. The research revealed consistent obstacles, including limited mentorship, gender biases, inadequate institutional support, and leadership models that do not reflect women’s strengths or experiences. These factors collectively undermine leadership readiness, advancement, and representation. The findings underscore the need for intentional leadership development, inclusive structures, and organizational cultures that support gender-balanced leadership. These insights directly shape the evidence-based strategies I bring to leaders and organizations today.
Leadership Research Insights
- Barriers preventing women from advancing to leadership roles
- Organizational dynamics that contribute to underrepresentation
- Leadership competencies and support structures that promote advancement
- The role of culture, bias, and institutional behavior in shaping career pathways
- Strategies leaders can implement to create equitable, high-performance environments
The Research Informs ADIRA Enterprise
This research directly shapes ADIRA’s executive leadership frameworks and methodology, including:
- Evidence-based coaching models
- Leadership identity clarity
- Inclusive leadership development
- Organizational culture assessments
- Executive readiness and advancement strategies
- Women’s leadership pipelines in STEM
For more on STEM leadership research, visit the U.S. National Science Foundation at https://www.nsf.gov
APA Citation:
Smith, T. B. (2022). Status of Women in STEM Leadership Positions: An Exploratory Case Study. [Zenodo]. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17730796
