Why Our Future Depends on More Latinos Getting Involved in STEM
The 21st century world demands diverse perspectives to deliver the solutions to complex problems, and Hispanic people can play a huge part in that STEM-focused future. We asked two industry experts about why we need, and how we can get, more of these students to consider STEM careers.
What is the best fırst step for a Hispanic person looking to pursue a career in the STEM space?
Juan Torres: The fırst step for anyone interested in a STEM career in energy is to tap your sense of curiosity. STEM careers are founded in understanding the world around us and using that knowledge to improve how we live, work, and play.
Then talk to guidance counselors, university advisers, teachers, family members, and friends in STEM fıelds; other students; and, if possible, scientists and engineers to learn more about STEM career fıelds. They will be happy to share their knowledge and advice, and guide you along the path you choose.
The energy-related STEM fıelds hold signifıcant promise as every aspect of our lives relies on energy. Follow your passion, never stop learning, be persistent, and you will have a rewarding career.
Raquel Tamez: When I meet someone interested in STEM, the first thing I say is “Welcome! And good for you! Bravo!”
I enthusiastically invite them to explore the many opportunities and possibilities in STEM. I encourage them to identify which fıelds are most appealing to them. I explain that the easiest way to start is to go online — read and watch videos. NASA, National Science Foundation, and many other organizations have countless resources to describe all the many and various fıelds in STEM, and the exciting work being done.
I further explain that it’s imperative that they continue to take math and science courses, and if not currently enrolled in these, to talk with a counselor or adviser, and figure out how to start. Finally, I say that it’s never too late to start, but to do STEM, you must start.
Why is Hispanic representation in STEM so critical?
JT: The Hispanic population is the largest ethnic demographic in the United States, yet we are signifıcantly underrepresented in STEM fıelds. Because of this, our country is missing out on so much of the creativity and ingenuity from this talent pool.
Representation is important because it shows the way to what’s possible. When students are able to see and talk to Hispanic scientists, researchers, engineers, and leaders in a STEM fıeld, it can open their imaginations to careers and other opportunities they may not have considered for themselves.
RT: The world is facing complex problems — global pandemic, climate change, racial and financial inequalities — and we know from both experience and research done by [political scientist] Scott Page that diverse teams lead to better solutions to complex problems.
Diversity of perspectives, life experiences, thoughts, and opinions all lead to richer discussion and better solutions. Page describes it as a “diversity bonus,” an extra amount that is achievable from diverse teams.
This added benefıt is gained when working on complex problems rather than simple ones, and in order to gain this diversity bonus, organizations must make it possible — create time and opportunity for people to contribute, use diverse teams for complex tasks rather than simple ones, reduce biases in recruiting and hiring, and establish policies and processes to enable diversity bonuses to occur.
The world needs inclusive solutions and those can only be created if diverse perspectives are included in design processes. The world needs comprehensive, inclusive solutions that reflect our diverse population. Increasing diversity, inclusion, and equity in STEM is how we capture these diverse perspectives and make it happen.