Session 7 Women in the Field: Navigating Gender Dynamics in Extreme Weather Pursuits

Tuesday, 14 January 2025: 1:45 PM-3:00 PM
208 (New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center)
Host: Sixth Symposium on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Submitters:
Mayra Ivelisse Oyola-Merced, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Radar Science, Pasadena, CA and Jennifer Walton
Cochairs:
Mayra Ivelisse Oyola-Merced, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Radar Science, Pasadena, CA and Jennifer Walton

In the weather, water and climate enterprise, as well as related fields, the pursuit of understanding extreme weather phenomena often involves venturing into the heart of nature's fury. However, for women in these disciplines, navigating the landscape of field research presents its own set of challenges. From tornado chasing to shipborne and airborne field campaigns, and roles encompassing sensor deployment and data collection, traditionally male-dominated domains, women encounter unique obstacles in their quest for scientific exploration. This session will delve into these challenges, discussing issues such as gender dynamics, power differentials, safety concerns, and the establishment of support networks crucial for success in fieldwork environments.

Moreover, this session provides a valuable opportunity for mentors to gain insight into how best to support and advocate for mentees interested in pursuing field research paths. Join us in exploring the challenges, triumphs, and pathways forward for women in field research, both within the meteorological community and beyond. While the focus is on the experiences of women, the insights gleaned from this discussion hold relevance for all members of the meteorological community, both in and out of the field.

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