During the 1950s and 1960s, women faced significant barriers in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Societal expectations often steered women towards more traditional roles.

Askins likely encountered a male-dominated workplace at NASA, requiring her to overcome gender biases and demonstrate her competence and expertise in a challenging environment.

Inventors often face challenges in securing recognition and resources for their work. Askins, as a woman in a male-dominated field, likely had to advocate for her invention and demonstrate its value to a skeptical audience.