Advancing Women of Color in STEM: An Imperative for U.S. Global Competitiveness

Abstract

The Problem: The underrepresentation of people of color in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) has become a crisis of significant proportion. The crisis is more pronounced when we examine participation by race and gender and explore how these two primary identity dimensions serve to marginalize women of color in STEM fields. These differential representations start during the early years and continue within institutions of higher education and the workplace. The Solution: To address the absence of women of color in STEM, it is important to understand the forces that hinder and support their career development, beginning with early childhood experiences and throughout education and work environments. Interventions promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion must start in early and secondary education and continue through academia and the workplace. Stakeholders: Addressing this crisis is the responsibility of leaders of public and higher education and those of business and industry.