Which of the following factors is most strongly associated with the persistent gender wage gap in various industries, despite statistical adjustments for qualifications and experience?

The persistent gender wage gap in various industries is most strongly associated with occupational segregation. This means that men and women often work in different jobs, with traditionally male-dominated fields, like engineering or technology, typically paying more than those dominated by women, like education or caregiving. Even when men and women have similar qualifications and experience, the types of jobs they choose often lead to significant differences in pay. For example, a male engineer may earn much more than a female teacher, even if both have similar education levels. This separation of job types contributes to the ongoing wage gap, as it limits women's access to higher-paying positions.