Addressing Common Misperceptions to Diversify the STEM Talent Pipeline

Job growth in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) continues to outpace job growth in all other areas. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that employment in STEM fields will increase by more than nine million jobs between 2012 and 2022. While this will lead to meaningful employment for many, it also poses a challenge as employers are finding it increasingly difficult to fill these roles.

As we work to bridge the gap between the labor force and the needs of employers, we must also work to diversify the talent pool that will fill this gap. Diverse backgrounds, perspectives and opinions lead to innovation. The challenges we are working to solve in the education and technology space require big ideas. I find that big ideas are born when people with a variety of life experiences contribute to the conversation. 

According to the White House, women and minorities represent 70 percent of college students but less than 45 percent of STEM degrees. This massive untapped talent pool drives us to ask the question, how do we diversify the STEM pipeline? As we confront this disparity, we should address three common misperceptions around STEM in higher education. By increasing the number of women and minorities pursuing STEM degrees, we will see a more diverse talent pipeline.  

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