Melinda Kelly - Newhaven College

Mathematics and Science Teacher, Bachelor of Science (Marine Science), Diploma of Education

When and why did you get interested in STEM? 
I always enjoyed Maths and Science at secondary school and went on to study a Bachelor of Science. My VCE load besides English, was exclusively in STEM subjects. I have a passion for them and this lead me to apply for Marine Biology at James Cook University. This course coupled with completing my Science degree at The University of Melbourne enabled me to learn in the field and a few years later impart this knowledge and interest to my students.

What do you love about your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is working with and inspiring young people. I love being in the classroom, engaging with students and seeing a sense of wonder. When students become passionate about the learning of Maths and Science it is amazing. Working with like-minded colleagues and leaders is also enjoyable.

Do you think it is important for more women to work in STEM?
More women in STEM industries will encourage more young women to take on positions in these fields. Women should and could make up 50 per cent of workers in STEM.

What is one thing government/schools/organisations could do to increase the number of women working in STEM?
I don’t think students are aware of all of the opportunities available to them. Organisations can promote their fields by running programs for school aged students. Engineers without Borders from the University of Melbourne run an amazing program which exposes students to different types of engineering. Several years ago the government funded a Girls in STEM program for Gippsland schools through the Local Learning Network which was amazing and allowed girls to visit and work with different women working in different STEM fields.

In private organisations and government - have minimum quotas for women in executive level roles. Less than 30 per cent of women in STEM industries is not good enough – and they are earning less. ‘Women in STEM’ is a good move by the Federal government. Ensure women are receiving equal pay in these roles. In the school environment, have more leaders who have STEM backgrounds, have female and male teachers of STEM subjects.

Name a woman who inspires you, who has worked, or is working in the STEM field – and why do you admire her?
The students I have taught who have continued their studies to become engineers, astrophysicists, biomedical scientists and doctors among other professions. And also Mayim Bialik who played Dr Amy Farrah Fowler on the Big Bang Theory who is actually a neuroscientist and uses her position to promote girls in STEM.

This year’s IWD theme is around innovation and new technology – what is one prediction you have for future technology and how it will impact our lives?
I hope to see gene technology used to help prevent hereditary diseases.

What advice would you give to your 12-year-old self in terms of pursuing a career in technology and science?
Continue doing what you are doing. If you have an interest in an area, then you will be content to spend time learning, growing and studying in those areas.