Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Athena's Membership and Sponsorship FAQs. Here, you'll find answers to common questions about how to join, who qualifies for membership, and how organizations can partner with us. Athena is committed to fostering leadership growth, mentorship, and community for those advancing careers in STEM fields and their workplace allies.
1
Who qualifies for membership at Athena?
Athena welcomes any individual working in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math roles, industries, or companies, along with their workplace allies. Students in STEM pursuing STEM careers are also eligible for membership, and universities and organizations can partner with Athena to support leadership development initiatives. Athena membership offers leadership development, mentorship opportunities, impactful networking, and the strength and support of a resolved and resilient global community.
Our members include:
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Women currently working in STEM fields, industries, or companies.
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Women in technology-centered or science-related roles.
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Women pursuing leadership advancement in STEM fields.
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Male allies and other workplace supporters committed to advancing leadership opportunities for women.
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Organizations focused on leadership development and workplace innovation.
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Students pursuing STEM degrees or careers in STEM fields.
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Universities partnering to support leadership development initiatives.
Examples of who can join:
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I am a self-employed marketing professional. I work with a myriad of technology platforms every day, but I've never thought of myself as a woman in STEM. Can I join?
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Yes! If your work intersects with STEM industries or roles, you qualify for membership. Athena supports professionals like you who contribute to and collaborate with STEM-focused organizations.
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I manage operations for a biotech startup, but I don't have a STEM degree. Can I still be a member?
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Absolutely! Many members work in support functions essential to STEM success. Athena values leaders from diverse roles who drive innovation and advancement in the STEM economy.
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I am a software engineer at a major tech company and want to develop my leadership skills. Would membership benefit me?
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Yes, definitely! Athena's programs are designed to accelerate leadership growth and create opportunities for career advancement in STEM.
Athena welcomes any individual working in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math roles, industries, or companies, along with their workplace allies. Our membership is designed to offer leadership development, mentorship opportunities, impactful networking, and the strength and support of a resolved and resilient global community.
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2
I don't have a STEM degree. Can I still become a member?
Yes! Athena membership is open to anyone working in STEM-related roles, industries, or companies. Many of our members work in areas such as business development, human resources, marketing, legal, or operations that are essential to the growth and success of STEM organizations. If you're committed to driving leadership growth in STEM, you belong at Athena.
Certification programs include Athena Academy and Athena On Boards (AOB) that empower leaders from various backgrounds to succeed in STEM-focused organizations.
3
What kind of companies can become corporate partners?
Athena partners with leading STEM-focused companies and organizations committed to the development of their female leaders and workplace allies. These include:
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Biotechnology, healthcare, and life sciences firms.
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Technology and engineering companies.
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Academic institutions focused on STEM education and research.
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Startups and global corporations seeking to elevate women leaders.
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Service providers that support STEM companies
Partnership allows companies to demonstrate their commitment to leadership excellence in STEM, access our leadership programs, and showcase workplace allyship efforts through customized development opportunities.
Learn more about corporate partnership packages here.
4
Do you offer sponsorships for service providers?
Yes! Athena offers tailored sponsorship opportunities for service providers aligned with our mission, such as:
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Professional services organizations in fields like law, finance, or HR that support STEM industries.
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Leadership development and coaching firms.
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Consultants specializing in organizational growth and talent development.
By partnering with Athena, service providers gain access to a highly engaged, global network of professionals committed to empowering women leaders and promoting workplace transformation.
For more information on service provider sponsorship, contact us here.
5
Do you offer sponsorships for service providers?
There are many ways to contribute! You can:
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Join as a member if you work in a role that supports STEM industries or companies.
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Become a mentor and support emerging leaders in our community.
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Serve as a workplace ally, advocating for systemic change and greater inclusion.
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Sponsor events, research initiatives, or programs to further advance women in STEM globally.
Learn more about how to get involved here.
6
Why should I choose Athena for leadership development?
For 26+ years, Athena has advanced thousands of women and workplace allies worldwide through leadership training, mentorship, and advocacy. Its programs—such as Athena Academy, Athena On Boards, and Athena On Demand—are developed by and for women working and supporting STEM, ensuring content is relevant, actionable, and impactful.
With members and partners in 178 countries, Athena is uniquely positioned to help leaders and organizations accelerate career growth and advance leadership opportunities for STEM women and their allies.