ComEd STEM Labs Inspire the Next Generation of Women in STEM Careers
In celebration of Women’s History Month, ComEd hosted its annual STEM Labs event on Saturday, March 22, in Chicago, bringing together 50 local high school students and over 25 ComEd professionals for a day of mentorship, networking, and career exploration. The event aimed to inspire young women to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, addressing the ongoing gender gap in these industries while fostering a supportive community for future leaders.
Under the national theme of “Moving Forward Together,” the program emphasized the importance of representation, mentorship, and collaboration in building a more inclusive STEM workforce. Through interactive sessions and meaningful connections, ComEd is helping pave the way for young women to pursue rewarding and impactful careers in STEM.
Empowering Young Women Through Mentorship
The cornerstone of the event was a Women in STEM panel featuring prominent leaders from ComEd and beyond. Panelists included:
- Cheryl Maletich, Senior Vice President of Transmission and Substation at ComEd
- Najwa Abouhassan, Senior Manager of Operations Planning at ComEd
- Jessica Jaramillo, Manager of Transmission and Substation at ComEd
- Kimberly Moore, Founder and CEO of KDM Engineering and founder of Calculated Genius, Inc., a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women of color in STEM
The panel was moderated by Traci Briscoe, president of the Network of Exelon Women – Chicago, a ComEd employee resource group. Each speaker shared their unique journey into STEM, offering insights into overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and thriving in male-dominated fields.
Following the panel, students had the chance to network with 25 female ComEd employees, building professional connections and identifying potential mentors. These interactions provided students with a clearer understanding of the diverse paths available in STEM careers while reinforcing the message that they belong in these spaces.
“Representation and mentorship are critical for building the next generation of STEM leaders,” said Kimberly Moore. “It’s not just about sparking interest—it’s about sustaining it by showing young women that they belong in these spaces, that their voices matter, and that there’s a powerful community ready to support them. I’m proud to partner with an organization like ComEd, which helps make those connections real.”
Addressing the Gender Gap in STEM
Despite women making up over half of college graduates, only 28 percent of STEM professionals are women, according to a study by MIT. This disparity highlights the urgent need for programs like ComEd’s STEM Labs, which aim to close the gender gap by providing female students with access to role models, resources, and hands-on experiences.
By connecting students with successful women in STEM, ComEd is not only inspiring interest but also fostering long-term engagement. Mentorship plays a crucial role in sustaining this interest, ensuring that young women feel supported as they navigate their educational and career journeys.
Preparing Students for a Growing STEM Workforce
As electrification, data, and technology continue to shape our daily lives, the demand for STEM professionals is expected to grow significantly across northern Illinois. These careers offer family-sustaining wages and opportunities to lead innovation in areas such as clean energy, infrastructure development, and advanced technologies.
ComEd’s STEM Labs program is designed to prepare students for this evolving landscape by sparking their interest in STEM early and providing them with the tools and guidance needed to succeed. Since its inception in 2015, the program has engaged approximately 2,000 students from across the region, helping them explore STEM possibilities and connect with mentors who can guide their growth.
Expanding Opportunities Through Diverse Programs
ComEd STEM Labs is just one of many initiatives the company sponsors to encourage diversity in STEM. Additional programs include:
- Construct Youth Academy: A pre-apprenticeship program that introduces students to careers in construction and skilled trades.
- Tools of the Trade: Provides financial assistance and resources to students pursuing technical education and certifications.
- Future of Energy Scholarships: Awards scholarships to students pursuing degrees in STEM-related fields.
- After School Matters: Offers hands-on learning experiences in STEM and other disciplines for Chicago teens.
These initiatives collectively focus on giving diverse groups of students greater exposure to STEM opportunities, breaking down barriers, and creating pathways to success.
Building Leaders for the Clean-Energy Transition
As the world moves toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, the need for skilled STEM professionals will only increase. ComEd recognizes the importance of preparing students—especially young women and students of color—to become leaders in this transition. By investing in education, mentorship, and workforce development, ComEd is helping ensure that the next generation of innovators reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
“Careers in STEM fields are open to all, and we are committed to ensuring the next generation of women have opportunities for successful, rewarding, and lucrative careers in STEM spaces,” said Cheryl Maletich. “Programs like ComEd’s STEM Labs build students’ experience, inspire their imagination, and put them on a path to success as they consider their personal career journeys.”
Joining Forces to Move Forward Together
ComEd’s commitment to fostering diversity in STEM extends beyond individual programs. By partnering with organizations like KDM Engineering and leveraging the expertise of its own employees, ComEd is creating a robust ecosystem of support for aspiring STEM professionals.
For the 50 students who attended this year’s STEM Labs event, the day was more than just an opportunity to learn—it was a chance to see themselves as future leaders in STEM. As ComEd continues to expand its outreach efforts, it remains dedicated to empowering young women and underrepresented groups to pursue careers that will shape the future of energy, technology, and innovation.
To learn more about ComEd’s STEM initiatives and how you can get involved, visit their website today. Together, we can inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and create a brighter, more inclusive future.
