This Hispanic Heritage Month Encouraging Latino Students to Pursue STEM Careers
Carlos Romero |
October 1, 2024
Growing up, I was inspired to pursue a career in science while studying chemistry in high school. In one project, we mixed various substances together to create a spearmint flavor like you might find in chewing gum, and I was hooked. I went on to earn a master’s degree in chemical engineering and spent more than two decades working for major corporations in many roles that allowed me to travel all over the world.
I was lucky. Education was highly valued in my family, and several of my siblings also gravitated toward science, technology, engineering and math careers. But many other children from Hispanic families aren’t as fortunate. They suffer from low academic expectations and/or a lack of role models in STEM-related jobs.
According to Pew Research, Hispanic adults make up 17% of the U.S. labor force but just 8% of those working in STEM careers. Many Hispanic children aren’t even aware of the possibilities that exist within the STEM fields.
As technology plays an increasingly important role in Americans’ daily lives, STEM is a fundamental driver of economic success. Beyond that, learning about STEM topics prepares students to thrive in any career. It helps them see the world differently and become highly adept at solving problems and thinking critically. For these reasons and many more, it’s essential that all students — and especially those of color — receive a high-quality STEM education and learn about career options in these critical fields.
Here are five ways that schools, communities and families can deliver on this promise.
First, invest in strong STEM programming in schools. While all students deserve access to rigorous STEM instruction, children of color and those who live in poorer communities often lack access to key learning opportunities and resources, such as robotics and computer science, advanced science classes in high school, even hands-on experiments and other basic science and technology exposure in elementary school. To address these gaps, school districts can prioritize STEM education and invest in high-quality professional development to ensure that teachers feel qualified to teach science in engaging and practical ways that adequately prepare students for future careers.
Educators can promote organizations such as Latinas in STEM and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, which offer valuable resources for Hispanic STEM students seeking to connect with peers and expand their knowledge in the field. Families and other community members can advocate for stronger investment in STEM programming in their schools by seeking partnerships with local businesses and organizations, including STEM-focused clubs, workshops, seminars and competitions to enhance resources and opportunities.
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