Sudipto Ghosh (SG): Hi Cheryle, what advice would you give women entering the STEM field?
Cheryle Cushion: “Cliches exist for a reason, right? So yes, it remains true that women must be prepared to work harder and to do more. That said, while there are still organizations and people who have a lot of growing to do when it comes to diversity and inclusion, I’ve seen a lot of progress in the STEM field, overall, and that’s very encouraging.
Perhaps most importantly, you should surround yourself with allies who champion your aspirations and cultivate an environment of inclusivity and support. Trust your gut in this regard. If you have any doubts about whether somebody is helping or hurting you, then you already have your answer and it’s time to move on. At the same time, make time for mentorship and networking. Yes, it’s daunting amidst the chaos of daily life, and I certainly never found time for it until last year and my first, life-changing, self-affirming meeting with an executive coach.
So, my advice is to just do it – prioritize yourself and the meaningful connections that enrich your journey.”
SG: What are some of the greatest challenges you encountered as a woman in STEM?
Cheryle: “Being a woman in a largely male ecosystem is challenging, no doubt about it. Yes, you’re often treated differently, but that isn’t always a bad thing, and sometimes it’s your self-doubt that mostly stands in the way of your growth. It’s important to know the difference and to understand what’s at play at any given time.
As for being a working mom, with the benefit of hindsight, I can share that nobody will ever achieve 100 percent balance. You simply have to decide each day what your priorities are for that day. Every day is a pie, and you have to carve out slices for the things that need your time and attention. How you divide it is up to you. I have three children, all grown up now, and at times carving that pie felt like an insurmountable challenge. In all those years though, I missed one birthday, while on a business trip to Japan, and one doctor’s appointment. While that sounds like a good track record,
I still live with the guilt of those missed events! Nevertheless, let the takeaway be that it’s still possible and rewarding to be a mother and to have a fulfilling career, you simply have to be realistic with yourself.”
SG: Please describe some of your lowest lows and highest highs as a woman in STEM.
Cheryle: “From the school of hard knocks, I’ve learned four key things:
- Not everyone is who they say they are, so always trust your gut
- Nobody is indispensable, and I mean nobody
- Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should
- Nice guys really do finish last, sometimes
As for the highs, working in startups has allowed me to be part of some truly great wins, but also some devastating losses, like closing doors and laying off people. I had a pretty good start to 2024 actually, with the news that MarCom has recognized me with a Platinum Award for Individual Achievement for my body work in reimagining the sales pipeline. Incidentally, I had another woman working closely with me on that program. Let’s hear it for the incredible women in STEM who define what it is to have each other’s backs!”
