Positions in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math arenas are some of the most coveted and popular career paths for people to embark upon. However, Black employees are still extremely underrepresented in STEM fields. According to new data, although Black children are extremely interested in pursuing STEM careers, they lack early access to resources.
Per a report via the tech skills platform YouScience®, in conjunction with Black Girls Do STEM, the 2024 Black Students and STEM Report concludes that there are “limited exposure to in-demand careers” for Black children.
“As a Black woman in STEM, I have seen first-hand the lack of representation for women, especially Black women, in these in-demand career fields,” Cynthia Chapple, Founder and CEO of Black Girls Do STEM said in a recent press release. “However, I have long felt that the solution to this lies within redefining education for Black students through access to identity affirming informal learning environments; so they understand the full scope of their aptitudes, and also the full scope of what careers are possible.”
Chapple went on to say that, “Working with YouScience® has confirmed that notion by truly showcasing the possibilities for our students based on their unique, individual aptitudes.”
Additionally, the report highlights a disparity in interest and access to STEM fields between genders. While some data points to less interest among girls in STEM careers as compared to boys, The 2024 Black Students and STEM Report reveals quite an opposite picture. That simply isn’t true.
- 88% more Black female students have an aptitude for careers in Advanced Manufacturing than interest
- 73% more Black female students have more aptitude for careers in Computers & Technology than interest
- 72% more Black female students have an aptitude for careers in Architecture & Construction than interest
“For decades, Black students have encountered inequities that have impacted their pathways in education and then career,” Edson Barton, Founder and CEO of YouScience® said in the same press release.
“It’s imperative to recognize that Black students possess the aptitude for all STEM careers, but the glaring exposure gap remains a formidable challenge due to resource deficiencies and lack of representation. By bridging the exposure gaps and doing so earlier in education, society can help Black students understand all of the opportunities available to them and connect them with education and career pathways and programs that can foster even more skills and understanding.”
Per the YouScience® press release, as of 2021, 9% of the STEM workforce was Black. Although this is an increase from the 7% in 2011, there is still work to do to close the gap for Black children, especially young Black girls, who are interested in pursuing STEM careers. To find out how you can help bridge the gap in STEM exposure, click here.
