We frequently talk about the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, and why getting more girls in technology is important. But that isn’t the only gap that desperately needs to be filled if we are to achieve a workforce that reflects the perspectives, insights, and talents of our population. Like women, people of color are largely underrepresented in STEM fields, and the circumstances that impact these numbers start way before college and job searches.
According to the White House, “Members of racial and ethnic minority groups are projected to become the majority of America’s population in the next 30 years. Today, however, they account for just 28 percent of America’s STEM workers.” We need the contributions of these groups, so 28 percent is just not enough.