Women Who Changed the World of STEM - Thanksgiving Point

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Science, technology, engineering, and math shape the world we live in—and some of the most groundbreaking discoveries in STEM were made by women who dared to ask questions, think differently, and push boundaries.

For Utah families, moms, nannies, and educators, introducing kids to real role models in STEM is one of the most powerful ways to spark curiosity and confidence. At Thanksgiving Point, many of these fields come to life through hands-on exhibits and immersive indoor venues, helping children imagine themselves in these careers one day.

Here are five powerful women who changed the world of STEM—and how your kids can start exploring similar paths during a visit to Thanksgiving Point.

Pioneer of Chemistry & Physics

Marie Curie was a trailblazer in both chemistry and physics and remains the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields. Her groundbreaking research on radioactivity helped lay the foundation for modern medicine, cancer treatments, and nuclear science.

How kids can explore her field today

At the Museum of Natural Curiosity, kids experiment, test hypotheses, and explore cause-and-effect through hands-on science exhibits—just like Curie did in her lab.

Encourage young scientists to explore chemistry and physics through play and discovery.

Mathematician Who Helped Send Humans to Space

Katherine Johnson was a brilliant mathematician whose calculations were critical to NASA’s space missions, including the first American orbital flight and the Apollo 11 moon landing. Her work proved that math isn’t just numbers—it’s problem-solving that can change history.

How kids can explore her field today

At the Mountain America Jurassic Jungle, children complete missions, solve challenges, and think strategically—building the same problem-solving skills used in engineering and aerospace careers.

Let kids practice math and logic in a way that feels like an adventure.

World-Changing Primatologist & Conservationist

Jane Goodall transformed how the world understands animals through her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees. Her work showed that compassion, observation, and curiosity are just as important in science as data and tools.

How kids can explore her field today

At the Butterfly Biosphere, kids observe living creatures up close, learn about ecosystems, and discover how humans can protect the natural world.

Inspire future biologists and environmental scientists through real-life animal encounters.

Engineer, Physician & Astronaut

Mae Jemison made history as the first Black woman in space. With a background in engineering, medicine, and science, she showed that STEM careers don’t fit into just one box—they can intersect in powerful ways.

How kids can explore her field today

The Museum of Natural Curiosity encourages kids to explore engineering, creativity, and teamwork across hundreds of interactive exhibits—mirroring the interdisciplinary path Jemison followed.

Help kids see that they can love science, art, and exploration all at once.

Environmental Scientist Who Changed the Planet

Rachel Carson helped launch the modern environmental movement through her research and writing. Her work showed how science, data, and storytelling can protect ecosystems and improve human health.

How kids can explore her field today

At Curiosity Farms, children learn how science and technology impact agriculture, sustainability, and food systems through indoor spaces like the Livestock Learning Lab and Innovation Station.

Show kids how science can care for the planet and shape a better future.

When children see women who changed the world through STEM, they begin to believe:
“I could do that too.”

Thanksgiving Point’s indoor, hands-on venues help kids:

Build confidence in science and problem-solving
Explore STEM careers through play
Connect classroom learning to real-world impact
Discover interests that could shape their future

From chemistry and math to biology, engineering, and environmental science, STEM is everywhere—and it starts with curiosity.

Plan a visit to Thanksgiving Point and help spark a lifelong love of STEM.

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