Moms play a critical role in encouraging their daughters' interest in science

As the lifeblood of future economic growth and innovation, women should be celebrated for inspiring us on a daily basis. For the next week, that’s exactly what we’ll be doing.

Through articles, videos, social and multimedia content, we will be showcasing how women are mothers, mentors, leaders, influencers, and powerful agents of change at Verizon and in the technology world.

This Mother's Day is a great time for parents to think about the messages they're sending to their daughters about math and science.

According to the most recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor, women make up just 26 percent of Americans employed in computer and mathematical occupations. Because tech and innovation are the key to our country's future, it's important that women, who make up more than half of the workforce, get the opportunity to fully participate in STEM fields—we need to get those numbers up! And it all starts with girls.

"Inspire Her Mind" illustrates how parents play a critical role in encouraging or discouraging their daughters to follow their curiosity when it comes to science and math. The messages we send to girls start early, and moms especially can empower their daughters to enjoy STEM subjects by asking questions, displaying an interest in science themselves, and allowing girls to explore the world around them—even if it means getting their dresses dirty.

Verizon has partnered with Girls Who Code, MAKERS and other organizations whose mission it is to close the gender gap in STEM. Join @VerizonNews’ #WomenWhoInspire conversation on Twitter by celebrating the women who inspired leadership in your life and those of others!