THE ASSOCIATION FOR WOMEN GEOSCIENTISTS: SUPPORTING WOMEN AND INCREASING DIVERSITY WITH THE GEOSCIENCES

The Association for Women Geoscientists (AWG) is an international organization devoted to enhancing the quality and level of participation of women in geosciences and to introduce girls and young women to geoscience careers. With nearly 1000 members worldwide, AWG represents a wide range of disciplines and career paths in the geosciences including academia (faculty and students), industry, business, and government. Membership and associated benefits are open to all who support AWG's goals. Membership is not limited to women – many men are actively involved. The diverse membership is brought together by a common love of earth science and the desire to ensure rewarding opportunities for women in the geosciences.

AWG has a three-fold mission – to encourage the participation of women in the geosciences; to exchange educational, technical, and professional information; and to enhance the professional growth and advancement of women in the geosciences. We carry out this mission with assistance from the AWG Foundation (AWGF), which was established to sponsor the programs of AWG.

To encourage participation of women in geosciences, AWG programs include scholarships, Girl Scout activities, Student Awards for Geoscience Excellence, and Women in Geosciences Day as part of AGI’s Earth Science Week. AWG enhances professional growth and advancement of women in geosciences by providing leadership opportunities, a free resume review service, networking opportunities, and mentoring. The exchange of educational, technical, and professional information is facilitated by AWG through publications (e.g., Gaea and email newsletters), the distinguished lecturer program, conventions, cooperation with other societies, and domestic and international chapters.

These programs do make a difference. Scholarship recipients are often afforded an opportunity to complete their education after an unforeseen interruption in their education. Through mentoring and networking, AWG members build lasting professional and personal relationships. Experiences learned by AWG members are shared with the greater geoscience community.