Diversity in STEM | Session IV: Innovation Today & Tomorrow

Session IV: Innovation Today & Tomorrow

Like never before, the U.S. is in a deep-seated race to bolster the country’s “engineering pipeline” to meet the significant demand created by the escalation in global technological and scientific advancements. Cultivating a diverse STEM workforce is critical as corporations seek to lead effectively during a time of unprecedented globalization. To that aim, the U.S. is faced with the task of increasing the number of women, especially women of color entering STEM fields.

While industry experts agree on the goal of diversifying the “STEM pipeline,” conversations continue regarding effective methods to increase the number of women in STEM. During this panel, we will hear from two women who have been on the frontline of pioneering and innovation within STEM, here in the region.

What to Expect at Session IV:

We will be discussing the topics of systemic biases, and their role in preventing individuals from diverse backgrounds from entering and advancing in the fields of innovation and technology. We will also dive into educational disparities, from access to quality education and training, to the environment in which schools and companies create, and even the lack of role models offered to individuals of diverse backgrounds.

Additional topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Changes in STEM within the past 5 years and where STEM is supposedly going in the next 5 years (interesting trends occuring currently)
• Biggest challenges STEM currently faces
• The changes necessary to face the future effectively
• How people in STEM can make a substantial difference
• Common misconceptions around the topic of Diversity in STEM
• Best resources for people to dive deeper

The topic of Diversity in STEM is of ever increasing importance because it does not just speak to representation and fairness. In increasingly inclusive environments, we see the broadening of perspectives and experiences, which has statistically shown to lead to better problem-solving and decision-making. In addition, diversity promotes an increase in creativity and innovation, which in the field of STEM is becoming more crucial in determing which organizations are in it for the long-haul. Lastly, diverse teams are better equipped to design products and services as through their representation, they better meet the needs of the broad range of users and customers, leading to companies gaining a competitive advantage.

We look forward to seeing you there, providing meaningful connections, and giving you plenty to take back to your organizations. Coffee and pastries will be provided by Cream & Sugar Coffeehouse.

If you are unable to attend in-person, you can use the following Zoom meeting link, that will also be sent to those registered on Wednesday, May 10th by EOD.

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9553132283

Meeting ID: 955 313 2283

One tap mobile

+13052241968,,9553132283# US

+13092053325,,9553132283# US

Event Location -- UC Digital Futures, 3080 Exploration Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206.

Event Agenda

• 8:30 to 9:00 AM | Registration and Networking
• 9:00 to 10:00 AM | Program and Open Q&A

Panelists

• Candice Matthews Brackeen -- Founder and CEO of Lightship Foundation
• Dr. Whitney Gaskins -- Founder of The Gaskins Foundation, Assistant Dean of Inclusive Excellence & Community Engagement
• Jennifer Krivickas (panel moderator) -- Associate VP of Research at Digital Futures

Parking

Available parking at UC Digital Futures garage, 3080 Exploration Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206