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Abstract
This white paper documents a year-long narrative inquiry and engagement project led by JEDI Ambassadors at Florida International University. Through the “STEM Unscripted” podcast series and in-person interviews, this project highlights gender-based challenges in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and careers. It captures the lived experiences of students and professionals in male-dominated disciplines like Mechanical Engineering and Business Analytics. Major findings include persistent gender bias, underrepresentation, and the transformative power of storytelling. We offer recommendations to educators, institutions, and industry stakeholders for fostering more equitable environments. These include boosting mentorship opportunities, embedding bias education into curricula, and promoting representation in leadership and faculty roles.