Diversity in STEM and the Wage Gap: What You Need to Know
Though diversity in the STEM workforce has seemingly increased over the past few years, discrimination against women and people of color is clearly reflected through the wage gap. According to Pew Research Center, the gender wage gap is even wider in STEM occupations as opposed to non-STEM occupations, and Black and Hispanic people still continue to be underrepresented within the STEM workforce.
A 2018 study by the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) additionally indicated that many female engineers of color felt both uncomfortable and isolated as as a result of being of minority status, citing both gender and race-based biases. Those who were surveyed also described experiences with regret, fear, and hesitation to negotiate their own starting salaries and benefits, despite feeling that their wage was unfair. In 2016, the median earnings of women in STEM occupations was $60,828 — a mere 72 percent of the median earnings of their male counterparts, which was $84,000.
So what does this mean for the STEM workforce as a whole?
Ultimately, these studies demonstrate how a lack of diversity in the STEM creates an unwelcome environment for women and people of color. This discrimination means that more women and people of color will be driven away from interests in the STEM fields. Additionally, the wage gap between women and men in STEM occupations will cause women to have to fight or negotiate for equal salaries, and causes them to feel like they do not work hard enough. The STEM workforce, as well as many other industries, need to encourage diversity as a whole, and rid of the wage gap once and for all.
How can I encourage diversity in STEM?
Whether this means creating a more inclusive workplace environment for women and people of color, or celebrating diverse cultures, diversity in the STEM fields needs to happen. There are so many ways to grow diversity in STEM and help close the wage gap. For instance, instead of creating an environment of toxic competitiveness, you can encourage women and people of color to pursue STEM opportunities, mentor those who look up to you, and support organizations that share this same goal.
Creating an environment that supports diversity in STEM is one step closer to closing the wage gap once and for all. With a more diverse STEM workforce, other backgrounds will finally be celebrated and will positively to the future of STEM.
Article by: Melanie Kuo
