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The problem. STEM careers are among the strongest pathways to economic mobility in the United States, yet persistent barriers prevent many people from accessing these opportunities. In particular, women; Black, Latino/a/x, and Indigenous individuals; first-generation college students; and students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face a host of systemic barriers throughout the STEM education-employment pathway that prohibit advancement.
Why does this matter? Without a diverse STEM pipeline, colleges will struggle to meet retention and completion goals. Companies will miss out on the innovation and productivity gains that diverse teams deliver. And the U.S. risks falling behind in global competitiveness as STEM labor shortages intensify.Â
The solution. In this white paper, we highlight some evidence-based strategies that address several persistent structural and contextual barriers and create more inclusive STEM learning and working environments, ultimately advancing STEM economic mobility. These strategies address equity gaps at all levels—from individuals, to small groups, to entire institutions—by supporting individuals' sense of belonging, self-efficacy, learning, persistence, and success.Â
These strategies touch on four key elements of the education-employment pathway, focusing on how to:Â
1) Effectively use psychologically-attuned, evidence-based teaching practices in STEM classroomsÂ
2) Provide socioemotional support for STEM studentsÂ
3) Build bridges between postsecondary STEM training and workforce opportunitiesÂ
4) Create a growth-minded, equitable company culture in STEM workplaces
We offer concrete advice and examples for how educational and organizational leaders can apply and implement these low-lift, high impact solutions. By implementing these evidence-based practices, leaders can help ensure that STEM becomes a pathway to opportunity for all individuals, and a powerful engine of innovation and economic strength for the nation. Read the white paper to explore these strategies in depth and discover how to bring them to life in your institution or organization.
Authors
- Katherine T. U. Emerson
Director of Research, Equity Accelerator - James T. Carter
Assistant Professor, School of Industrial and Labor Relations, Cornell University - Anthony M. Perry
Assistant Professor, College of Education and Human Development, University of North Dakota - Mesmin Destin
Professor, Department of Psychology, Northwestern University
This work was made possible by generous support from College Futures Foundation.
Download the White Paper
Removing Barriers, Creating Opportunity: Evidence-Based Strategies for Advancing Equity and Economic Mobility in STEM
Recommended Citation
Emerson, K. T. U., Carter, J. T., Perry, A. M., & Destin, M. (2025). Removing barriers, creating opportunity: Evidence-based strategies for advancing equity and economic mobility in STEM [White paper]. Equity Accelerator.
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