This post originally appeared in the Navigate the Future blog.
Here at Dassault Systèmes, a lot of our work has focused on gender parity, particularly in STEM education. Our extended use of LEGO MINDSTORMS for 3D modeling, manufacturing, systems engineering, and simulation not only encourages collaborative work but also aims to pique interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) from all students. Which is why we were so excited to hear that last week, in collaboration with Tynker, an educational coding platform for children, Barbie launched the Robotics Engineer Doll as part of its collection of over 200 career dolls.
But this isn’t the first time Barbie has ventured into a STEM Career… she’s previously been an astronaut, computer engineer, scientist, and even a video game developer. According to a press release from Mattel, the doll was designed to highlight the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields and further encourage young girls’ imaginations for their future careers. The press release states,
“With only 24 percent of STEM jobs held by women, the Barbie brand is not only encouraging girls to explore STEM through imaginative play with the doll, but also learn real coding skills.”
In their partnership with Tynker, Barbie is now offering six free coding lessons that teach fundamental life skills such as logic and problem-solving. And with Barbie’s more diverse line – culturally, ethnically, and professionally – we’re excited to experience the shaping of a more inclusive and imaginative workforce of the future.
Check out this video on the new doll from Barbie’s Twitter:
Nafisa is a Communications Intern at Dassault Systemes and a second-year student at the University of Virginia looking to major in Media Studies but is open to wherever life takes her. She grew up between Bangladesh, Pakistan and America and is most passionate about news writing, Chick Fil A spicy chicken sandwiches, and dog memes.