Why Women Are Still “Climbing” the STEM Summit and haven’t “Climbed” Women’s underrepresentation in surgery, engineering, and mathematics persists globally, despite no inherent physical or cognitive barriers. In 2023, women comprised 15% of U.S. engineers, 27% of mathematicians, and 22% of surgeons (BLS, 2023), while former socialist states like Bulgaria achieve 50% female tech workers (Eurostat, 2023). Historical exclusion, cultural stereotypes, psychological barriers, systemic biases, and regional disparities drive these gaps. Socialist states’ policies, like quotas and childcare, boosted participation (e.g., 43% female engineering students in 1970 Romania). G7 countries struggle with cultural and workplace barriers, while developing economies like India (14% female engineers) face socioeconomic constraints. Eastern Europe leads regionally, followed by Western Europe, with North America, Asia, and Latin America lagging due to unique challenges. Intersectional factors exacerbate dis...