WHEREAS, throughout history, women have made extensive contributions in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM); WHEREAS, according to a report from the National Science Foundation, the STEM workforce is one of the fastest growing sectors in the economy with a 20% increase in the workforce between 2011 and 2021; WHEREAS, in 2021, nearly 24% of the United States workforce was employed in STEM occupations; WHEREAS, despite the overall increase in the STEM workforce, only 18% of women in the United States workforce hold STEM occupations; WHEREAS, of the STEM workforce in the United States, 35% consists of women, compared to 65% consisting of men; WHEREAS, according to a report from the Utah Women and Leadership Project, the gender gap in the STEM workforce is much wider in Utah, with only 21% of the STEM workforce consisting of women; WHEREAS, encouraging girls and young women to pursue higher education in STEM subjects is vital to increasing the number of women employed in the STEM workforce; WHEREAS, data indicates that gender stereotypes may impact a young woman's aspirations to pursue higher education in STEM subjects; and WHEREAS, the state can help to close the gender gap in the STEM workforce by dispelling stereotypes and promoting career opportunities for women in STEM occupations: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah recognizes the importance of closing the gender gap in the STEM workforce and increasing opportunities for women in STEM occupations. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah encourages girls and young women in Utah to explore STEM subjects, pursue higher education in STEM-related fields, and work towards careers in STEM occupations.