Luisa, being bold and Standing Your Ground
For a long time, science and outdoor adventure have shared the same frustrating reality, they didn’t invite women in.
Not enough gear that actually fits, male-body-shaped overalls, and don’t even get us started on the lack of outdoor period care solutions. Ever tried managing that on a remote research trip? Yeah, not exactly a seamless experience.
From university labs to rugged field sites, women have had to work twice as hard to prove they belong. But things are changing. Women like Luisa aren’t just stepping into these spaces, they’re making sure the door stays open for others.
A geologist, science communicator, and founder of Scot Rock Walks, Luisa is proof that science and adventure aren’t just for men—they’re for anyone with the curiosity to explore and the guts to stand their ground.
Geology Isn’t Just for the Boys
Luisa got into geology because rocks tell stories, and she wanted to be the one to read them. But being a woman in STEM? That came with challenges.
Geology isn’t just about microscopes and theories, it’s about long days in the field, navigating rugged landscapes, and hauling heavy gear. Yet somehow, there’s still this outdated idea that women aren’t as suited for it.
“One thing that needs to be shattered is the idea that women in STEM ‘lack’ the technical, physical, or leadership skills that men have. This outdated myth assumes we cannot do a job as well as a man, and that’s simply not true.” – Luisa
She’s had her expertise questioned, her ability doubted, and her contributions overlooked—not because of a lack of skill, but because of an outdated industry mindset. And while she’s spent plenty of time proving people wrong, she’d rather be spending it proving to women that they belong in these spaces too.
Making Science Fun (and Actually Understandable)
Let’s be honest, geology doesn’t always get the best PR. A lot of people think it’s dry, complicated, and best left to academics in beige cargo shorts. Luisa? She’s on a mission to change that.
Through Scot Rock Walks, she’s proving that geology isn’t just a subject, it’s part of every adventure. Every cliff face, mountain peak, and rocky coastline has a history, and when you understand it, the outdoors becomes even more mind-blowing. And clearly, she’s onto something. With over 500,000 followers, she’s making science fun, relatable, and just chaotic enough—especially when her dog Yura decides that rock formations are less interesting than rolling in mud.
Why Visibility Matters in STEM & Adventure
Luisa didn’t grow up seeing many women in geology, which is exactly why she’s making sure more women are seen now.
“If we want more women in STEM, we need to stop treating them like visitors in these spaces. We belong here. The more women we see leading in science, adventure, and exploration, the more the next generation will know they belong too.”
It’s not just about inspiring young girls, it’s about shifting the entire narrative. The more we normalize women in STEM and outdoor leadership, the less we’ll have to fight to justify our place.
How We Can Support More Women in STEM & the Outdoors
The change isn’t going to happen on its own. Here’s how we all make it easier for women to step into these spaces—and stay there:
- Call out outdated stereotypes. Women in STEM and adventure aren’t “breaking in” anymore—we’re here, and we’re not going anywhere.
- Fix the gear gap. Women shouldn’t have to choose between ill-fitting PPE or “the men’s version, but pink.” We need real solutions, including better period care for outdoor settings.
- Amplify women’s voices. Their work, research, and achievements deserve to be heard—and not as the token “woman in the field,” but as experts in their own right.
- Make learning accessible. Science should feel welcoming and exciting, not like an exclusive club for those who already “get it.” The more we open it up, the more people will step in.
Own Your Space, No Apologies
Luisa isn’t just a geologist, she’s a force for change. She’s making STEM and the outdoors more accessible, more inclusive, and a lot more fun.
Her story proves that being bold isn’t about waiting for permission. It’s about taking up space, telling your story, and making sure the next generation knows they belong here too.
So, where do you want to take up space? Because trust us—you belong there.
Quick-Fire Round: The Luisa Edition
🌍 If you could visit any geological wonder in the world, where would it be?
The lava lake in Hawaii. It’s been on my list forever, but I finally made it to my number-one place, the Grand Canyon, last year.
🍫 Go-to snack for long days in the field?
Caramel eggs or Kinder chocolate. Highly scientific choice.
🐶 Funniest moment on a geology tour?
Any time Yura, my dog, is involved. She’s always rolling in sand, mud, or something significantly worse.
🎶 Song that fuels your adventure spirit?
“Niteworks – Air Fair An La.”
🏕 Sunrise hike or starlit camping?
Starlit camping. I once spent a night on the Isle of Skye just lying on top of my campervan, looking at the stars. Best decision ever.
😂 Biggest adventure fail?
That time I thought it was a good idea to trek across a muddy lagoon with my partner and four dogs. Got completely stuck. No regrets, just lessons learned.
