Now in its fifth iteration, the survey’s latest edition revealed that 84 per cent of Britons surveyed believe it’s important to increase diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. However, 76 per cent agree there are barriers standing in the way of students currently accessing a strong STEM education.
Access and affordability are cited as the top barriers to STEM entry. Specifically, access barriers cited by UK respondents included a lack of STEM educators/teachers or classes in school (47 per cent) and a lack of internet access (15 per cent). 46 per cent of UK respondents believe they are unable to afford a quality STEM education. A further 30 per cent cited personal responsibilities such as earning money and providing for their family.
“Addressing the disconnect between education and employment is a core pillar of 3M’s advocacy within STEM fields and we believe the private sector has an important role to play in broadening access to STEM opportunities for everyone,” said Sarah Chapman, technical leader and advocate for diversity in STEM, 3M.
“That is the driving factor behind 3M’s drive to raise the profile of STEM among students in primary and secondary education through sponsored programmes such as the 3M Young Innovators Challenge in the UK, career resources, and employee mentoring and volunteering in schools through the STEM Ambassador programme.”
MORE IN SKILLS AND CAREERS
The majority (78 per cent) of Britons said they believe science companies would have a greater positive impact on society if there was more diversity within their workforce. Specifically, 84 per cent agreed that women are a source of untapped potential in the STEM workforce. Yet, 61 per cent say women are leaving STEM careers due to a lack of support.
“As in any career, representation matters. At 3M, we are encouraging greater recognition of the contributions of women in science and proactively engage in mentorship programmes to show young women the way into STEM and the wealth of opportunities available to them,” Chapman added.
“As a strategic partner of the British Science Association, 3M has supported its ground-breaking Smashing Stereotypes campaign for the past three years, showcasing the diverse and inspiring teams and individuals that are working in the STEM field, and helping break misconceptions about STEM experts further.”
What efforts would you like to see made to increase diversity and inclusion in the engineering sector? Let us know in the comments below.
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