Rep. Maloney and Senator Hirono Reintroduce Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act

Press Release

Reintroduced last week in the House of Representatives by Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) and in the Senate by Senator Mazie K. Hirono, the Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act would establish grants to support programs designed to increase participation for women and minorities in STEM. Under the bill, grants would support online workshops, mentoring opportunities to connect professionals with students, internships for undergraduate and graduate students, outreach programs for K-12 students, and retention programs for STEM faculty.

"Women today make up half of the current workforce, yet they still hold less than a quarter of all STEM jobs. Many groups including African-American, Hispanic, and Asian populations, make up only a quarter of the STEM workforce. It is all too clear that women and minorities are being left behind. That needs to change," said Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. "This bill will help bring more women and minorities into STEM education and help diversify our country's potential in the manufacturing sector, a vital industry that will allow for America to remain competitive in the global economy."

"Women and minorities in STEM fields face obstacles at every step of their careers," said Senator Hirono. "The STEM Opportunities Act and Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act will break down barriers and promote opportunities to engage our entire talent pool. As the demand for STEM workers grows in Hawaii and across the country, we must ensure that pathways to these jobs are inclusive of all Americans."

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