In a world defined by rapid technological change, sustainable development and increasing global interdependence, the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) sectors are not just leading innovation, they're shaping the future. But despite this pivotal role in society, STEM industries remain hindered by a persistent lack of diversity, both in representation and thought.
New briefing paper titled Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategies in STEM published by the Secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Diversity and Inclusion in STEM, offers an insightful look at what’s working, what isn’t and where urgent action is needed. The findings are a wake-up call: companies that ignore the importance of equity and inclusion are not just missing out but they're also falling behind. Winning in today’s global marketplace requires top-quality diverse talent that is fully capable of dealing with different cultures in an informed and nuanced manner. Therefore, companies lacking diversity miss out on expanding into new markets, gaining a competitive edge, boosting innovation and solving complex challenges effectively.
STEM is the engine room of our economy and currently it’s running low on fuel. Across the UK, the shortage of skilled STEM workers has been a concern for over two decades. Many employers struggle to recruit for highly technical roles and unless we address this shortfall, the potential for industries like life sciences, AI and climate technologies to power our economy will not be realised. The talent is out there but we’re simply not reaching it.
But here's the truth that often goes unstated: the skills gap is, in part, a diversity gap. Research published in 2020 suggests that of the STEM workforce:
- 65% is white men
- 27% is women, despite women making up 52% of the wider workforce
- 8% is ethnically underrepresented
- 11% is disabled, despite disabled people making up 14% of the wider workforce
- 28% is less likely to be aged 50 or older, compared to 33% of the wider workforce
This is not just about who is in the room, it is also about who’s being left out and what our economy is losing as a result of this.
