Programs for women re-entering STEM after a career break
A growing category of formal programs specifically designed for women returning to STEM careers after time away — for caregiving, relocation, or other reasons. These programs acknowledge that a gap doesn't erase expertise.
A nonprofit that partners with major companies to offer paid returnship programs for professionals returning to work after a caree…
View details →The UK's only fellowship program specifically for researchers returning to STEM after a career break of two or more years, combini…
View details →Deadline: January
Grants of up to $8,000 for women who hold a bachelor's degree and are preparing to advance, change careers, or re-enter the workfo…
View details →A Society of Women Engineers initiative connecting women returning to engineering after a career break with corporate return-to-wo…
View details →Yes — Path Forward partners with Amazon, Intel, Spotify, and others to run paid 16-week returnships for professionals with 2+ year career gaps. The SWE STEM Reentry Task Force provides resources and job board access. Daphne Jackson Fellowships (UK) are specifically for scientists and engineers returning after a 2+ year break, with part-time research placements.
AAUW Career Development Grants ($2,000–$12,000) fund women who hold a bachelor's degree and are preparing to advance or change careers in STEM. The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education provides need-based grants to women returning to school. Daphne Jackson Fellowships cover a salary for a part-time research period.
Most structured returnship programs run 12–16 weeks. Path Forward programs have a high conversion rate to permanent employment. Daphne Jackson Fellowships are 2 years part-time. AAUW grants fund specific courses or credentials rather than a structured program — useful for targeted upskilling before applying.
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