Debbie Sterling

Debra "Debbie" Sterling is a prominent figure in the STEM industry, advocating for women and leading initiatives to engage the next generation of female engineers. After graduating from Stanford University where she noticed a significant gender disparity in her engineering program, Sterling set out to address the underrepresentation of women in the field.

Sterling founded GoldieBlox, a company that develops toys, games, and media to challenge traditional gender roles in children's toys and inspire young girls to explore engineering. Using innovative marketing strategies, including a viral Super Bowl ad, GoldieBlox has significantly impacted the toy industry. The company's products are now available in over 6,000 retail stores worldwide, and its YouTube channel has amassed more than 100 million views and 660,000 subscribers, providing inspirational and educational content that further supports its mission.

Sterling has been recognized extensively for her entrepreneurial and advocacy efforts. She was named TIME Magazine's "Person of the Moment," Business Insider's "30 Women Who Are Changing the World," and appeared on Fortune Magazine’s “40 Under 40” list. Additionally, in 2015, she was inducted as a Presidential Ambassador for Global Entrepreneurship. Her work has also earned her a “Living Legacy” Award from the National Women’s History Museum. In her talks, Sterling shares her journey and urges her audience to think innovatively and challenge the status quo, aiming to empower and inspire a global audience of future female leaders in STEM.