Girls Who Code is a national nonprofit committed to closing the gender gap in technology by empowering young girls to pursue careers in computer science. Through programs like coding clubs and summer immersion experiences, they teach coding, ignite creativity, and foster a strong sense of community for girls of all backgrounds. By equipping the next generation of women in tech, Girls Who Code (https://girlswhocode.com/) is shaping a future where girls and women thrive in tech careers. In Winchester, Karin Lamson facilitates the local high school club, mentoring and guiding girls as they explore coding. The club is led by President Ashley Byrne and Vice President Riya Karunakaran.
Women’s History Month 2025 Interview
Karin: I currently teach computer science and technology-related courses at Winchester High School, where I’ve been since 2020. My teaching journey began in 2011, after transitioning from a career in engineering. My shift from engineering to education comes from my love of digital technology and its importance in learning. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to share the knowledge I’ve gained and support the learning of the next generation of students in Winchester.
Ashley: My name is Ashley Byrne, and I am currently a Junior at Winchester High School. I grew up and have lived in Winchester most of my life. While I’m still a student, I’m deeply involved in STEM activities, particularly in computer science, both at school and through external programs.
Riya: I live in Winchester and am a student at Winchester High School. I have a strong interest in coding and serve as the Vice President of the Girls Who Code club.
What sparked your interest in STEM?
Karin: My interest in STEM started in high school when I found that I really enjoyed math and was good at it. I took a computer science course where I learned the BASIC programming language, and my teacher encouraged me to pursue a career in the sciences. With my dad being an electrical engineer, I was inspired to explore that field further and decided to major in Electrical and Computer Engineering in college.
Ashley: My journey into STEM started when I wrote my first “Hello, World!” program on a Raspberry Pi in 4th grade. This initial experience really sparked my curiosity. Since then, I’ve actively pursued opportunities to learn more about programming and computer science. I have taken CS classes at my school, Johns Hopkins CTY, North Shore Community College, and Harvard Extension School. These classes have furthered both my interest and ability in programming, and I am very lucky to have had such great teachers.
Riya: I’ve always loved problem-solving and figuring out how things work, whether it’s in math class, coding, or everyday life. That curiosity led me to STEM because it allows me to think critically, experiment, and find creative solutions. I enjoy the challenge of learning new skills and seeing how technology and science shape the world around us.
What have been some of the highlights of your work (or something you are proud of)?
Karin: One of the highlights of my career as an engineer at GE Healthcare was training surgical residents at Brigham and Women’s Hospital on how to use our Neurosurgical Navigation system, which tracked a neurosurgical instrument like a biopsy or shunt guide, against an MRI. It was rewarding to be part of their learning process. My engineering colleagues often told me I’d make a great teacher. Now, at WHS, I have the chance to teach students who may one day become residents themselves, which is both exciting and fulfilling.
Ashley: One project I’m particularly proud of is the Massachusetts Community College course finder I developed this past summer. My goal was to help high school students find courses in areas they are interested in or want to explore further. My website consolidated all the course data from multiple different community colleges so students can easily search for courses and filter by subjects all in one place.
Riya: Learning to code and applying it to real projects has been a rewarding experience, and I’m proud of how much I’ve grown in my skills. I’m continuing to work on projects and improving them as I learn more. Seeing my progress over time has been both exciting and motivating.
Do you feel you faced particular challenges, and/or had particular advantages, as a female studying STEM or working in a STEM field?
Karin: In the late 90s and 2000s, being a woman in STEM was challenging, particularly in male-dominated industries. Sexism and sexual harassment were widespread, and we often endured toxic environments quietly, with little support. I’m proud that today, the next generation of women — like my daughters and students — has a much louder voice and the courage to push back. They no longer shy away from standing up for themselves, and they have the power to demand the respect and equality they rightfully deserve. I am hopeful that the progress we’ve made will continue and that women’s rights won’t be rolled back by new policies.
Ashley: When I first joined the Computer Science club at my school, I was one of the only girls there. It could feel a bit isolating at times. However, I think that experience has really driven me to be more proactive in encouraging other girls to get involved. Now as president of the Computer Science club, I hope to create a more inclusive environment by encouraging more girls to join. I also lead my school’s Girls Who Code club where I teach programming and invite female computer programmers to talk about their own experiences as a woman in tech.
Riya: I don’t feel like I’ve faced particular challenges as a female in STEM, which I’m really grateful for. I’ve been surrounded by supportive teachers, classmates, and opportunities that have encouraged me to explore coding and technology. I know that not everyone has the same experience, which is why I think it’s important to continue making STEM inclusive and welcoming for everyone.
Recognizing that our lives have multiple dimensions and pressures, what do you do for self-care?
Karin: For me, the best form of self-care is spending quality time with my husband and daughters. I also love being outdoors and typically spend a good amount of time gardening, which helps me relax and recharge.
Ashley: For me, I find reading is a great way to relax and recharge. I especially enjoy getting lost in a good mystery or learning something new from a nonfiction book. I also find a lot of fun in spending time outdoors. Going on walks or hiking with my family is a great way for us all to disconnect from screens and enjoy nature together.
Riya: To take care of myself, I make sure to balance school and other responsibilities with activities that help me recharge. I like to work out or go for walks, which helps me clear my mind and stay active. Spending time with friends and family is also really important to me, whether it’s just hanging out, talking, or doing something fun together.
Since this is a month honoring women, is there a woman who has inspired you and why?
Karin: Definitely my mom. She’s been an art teacher her whole adult life and still teaches classes at Lexington Arts & Crafts. She is also the primary caregiver for my older brother, who has spina bifida and Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. Her endless patience, unwavering dedication, and constant encouragement are truly inspiring.
Ashley: My mom is the most inspirational woman in my life and has been an essential part of my STEM journey. She founded and ran her own software company and was actually the first person who introduced me to the world of programming. Because of her, I had early exposure to coding, and she showed me firsthand that it’s possible for women to excel and lead in this field. I also hope to start my own company one day.
Riya: My grandma inspires me because she is a hard worker who dedicated her career to helping others as a doctor. She always makes time for family and sets an example of perseverance and kindness. She inspires me to make healthy choices, stay determined, and work hard toward my goals. She is loved by so many, and I admire her dedication and compassion.
How can we inspire and support young women to pursue STEM in their studies, careers, or lives?
Karin: I firmly believe in the power of creating spaces where women can come together, especially in fields where we are often underrepresented. In many of my classes, those who identify as girls are in the minority, so I make an effort to group them together to encourage empowerment and solidarity. During college and in my previous career, I was a member of SWE (Society of Women Engineers), which gave women a platform to challenge the status quo and support each other in a male-dominated industry. This is also why I am the facilitator for WHS’s Girls Who Code club. It’s a welcoming space where young women can unite, challenge stereotypes, and learn coding while supporting one another in breaking barriers.
Ashley: I believe making STEM accessible and engaging from a young age is essential to closing the gender gap in tech. Girls are more likely to choose computer science-related activities in the early grades and less in high school. Additionally, those who choose to do it in the early grades tend to stick with it throughout high school. It is also important to foster supportive and inclusive environments in classrooms, clubs, and extracurricular activities.
Riya: We can inspire more young women to pursue STEM by making it feel welcoming and inclusive for everyone. Encouraging them to try coding, math, or science without fear of failure can help build confidence. Seeing female role models and having supportive clubs or mentors can make a big difference in showing that STEM is for everyone.