Despite the continuing expansion of high-tech job opportunities, the literature indicates that many women are still socialized away from technology careers. The experiences of 12 women who have taken technological career paths and excelled in their fields were examined to identify factors that might have contributed to their excellence. The 12 women were "purposefully" selected to include 6 "guides" (college-level teachers and women who have achieved managerial and/or artistic status in high-tech industries) and 6 "pathtakers" (graduate students in technological fields). During in-depth interviews, the women attributed their success in a mathematical, scientific, or technological (MST) profession to the following factors: awareness of and interest in technical fields; encouragement of self-esteem; and encouragement of cognitive growth. It was recommended that parents and educators encourage females to pursue MST careers by taking the initiative to be proactive in helping girls understand from early childhood that women have a place in MST careers. Parents and educators can also work to change the negative perception of MST professionals as cold, nonnurturing people. Activities promoting development of the following skills and behaviors can be infused into girls' learning and play: critical thinking, reflective thinking, teamwork, question asking, and risk taking. (Contains 81 references.) (MN)