Currently, only 21% of engineering bachelor’s degree recipients are women, while minorities account for just 12.5%. Similarly, in industry, women represent just 29% of the manufacturing workforce while minorities account for only 20%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The Foundation is working to increase opportunities for women and minorities. Last year, a record number of scholarships were awarded to women and/or minorities.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The SME Education Foundation is committed to its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiative by providing increased opportunities to underrepresented and disadvantaged communities across the country.
Gideon Ndeh: Inspiring Aspiration
A sophomore at Georgia Tech, scholarships are critical to sustaining Gideon Ndeh. “Scholarships are life changing. They shift the momentum; allow focus on my education. They’ve been a necessity — they’ve changed everything. I feel blessed.”
Overcoming Adversity; Pursuing Opportunity: Nicole Tharp Strides Forward
Nicole Tharp, a Manufacturing Automation student at Truckee Meadows Community College, has received two scholarships from the SME Education Foundation, and credits that assistance as important in allowing her to focus on her studies.
Scholarship Helps Hispanic Engineering Student Forge New Life Path
A new Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship for students underrepresented in STEM-related careers is helping 19-year-old Hispanic student Devin Baylon focus on his studies rather than on the financial burdens associated with college.
Make An Impact
Join us in our efforts to increase manufacturing and engineering education opportunities for underrepresented students by donating to the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Scholarship fund. Your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate $100 or $1,000. Every little bit helps. Thank you for your support.