Abstract
M.Com. (Human Resource Management)
Orientation
Despite improvements in the employment of women in South Africa, they remain
underrepresented in traditionally male-dominated blue-collar occupations,
particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
(STEM). Research has indicated that employers are concerned about hiring young
women of childbearing age, for reasons related to pregnancy and maternity. Young
women trainees who enter STEM fields during their fertile years (18-35) are more
likely to have multiple family responsibilities, which may have an effect on their
apprenticeship training. As such, integrating and retaining young women in technical
blue-collar work may pose unique challenges in comparison to men, when
considering pregnancy and care responsibilities during the course of apprenticeship
training.
Research purpose
The purpose of the study was to investigate, within the South African context, the
impact of pregnancy and resultant care responsibilities on the attrition of women
trainees in blue-collar STEM occupations, the reasons that underlie the
phenomenon, and potential solutions.
Motivation for study
Pregnancy and care responsibilities are an important reality for working women. It is
therefore important to research ways in which organisations can better manage the
occurrence of pregnancy in the workplace, in order to facilitate the successful
inclusion and retention of women in traditionally male-dominated occupations.
Research design
A case study research strategy was employed in the present study. Data were
collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 participants. Further evidence
was acquired through document and record analysis. The data were coded and
analysed in a thematic manner, using the ATLAS.ti qualitative data analysis
software...