TYLER, Texas — Today is Pi Day! For mathematicians, it's a day to celebrate the mathematical constant 3.14 used in formulas and equations.
For meteorologists, it's a day to bring more attention towards STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers, such as meteorology.
In 2016, a group of female meteorologists launched 'Dress for STEM', encouraging women in STEM careers to wear purple to spark conversation about the underrepresentation of women in STEM.
According to experts, women make up nearly half of the workforce but only 27% work in STEM careers. This is an improvement compared to 1970 when only 8% of women represented those in the STEM workforce.
Meteorologist and organizer of the movement Julia Leopold said the excitement for young girls in STEM usually changes around middle school.
"Parents at home … if you're listening and you know your daughter is interested in these fields, I would just say keep encouraging her," said Leopold. "If we can keep that momentum going through middle school and high school, it becomes a lot more likely that these girls will pursue those fields through higher education and beyond."
If you are supporting the #DressforSTEM movement, send us a picture! Simply text 903-600-2600 or email news@cbs19.tv.