People of color and those living in systemically under-resourced communities are historically underrepresented in STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) . According to a 2021 Pew Research Study, white workers are the majority (67%), while Asian Americans (13%), Black (9%), and Latinx (8%) workers represent the rest.
In this week’s Industry Today feature, Jess Lee, Waters Corporation Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, writes about how industry can engage a STEM workforce that is more representative of the overall society. “There needs to be active partnerships with organizations that have a shared vision for an equitable future. This can lead to unique collaborations that have a direct impact in our communities and on the lives of students.”
Lee cites as examples of these partnerships:
- JA Worldwide, one of the largest youth-serving organizations that delivers hands-on, immersive learning in work readiness, financial health, entrepreneurship, sustainability, STEM, and economics.
- Ron Burton Training Village (RBTV), which provides access and mentorship in social skills, leadership, and education, including specialized STEM learning for girls.
- The Waters Student Academy, a program by the Waters Corporation, to interest high school students in STEM careers.
“STEM-based organizations and communities have much to gain and contribute to the world by helping ensure that today’s students are tomorrow’s STEM visionaries” Lee says. “While programs can be designed to offer more opportunities to Black and Latinx students, there is still much more that can be done to encourage engagement and participation. We are on a mission to achieve a workforce that is reflective of our world for the best thinking, collaborations, and impact, and creating pathways to introduce students from all backgrounds to STEM careers is just the first step.”
Read the complete article, How to Engage the Next Generation of STEM Workers.
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Tags: STEM, DEI, Susan Poeton, #SusanPoeton, #SuePoeton, Sue Poeton, Industry Today
Susan Poeton 