Engineering Societies Diversity Policy Statement
"Engineering a diverse future for the engineering profession"
The undersigned representatives of the engineering community support the opportunity for successful participation of all people in the engineering profession without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, or physical challenges. Working both individually and collectively, we will promulgate and implement strategic programs designed to effect measurable changes in the engineering infrastructure that support the academic and professional achievements of all.
Diversity enriches the educational experience and improves the practice of engineering. We learn from those whose experiences, beliefs, and perspectives are different from our own. These lessons can be taught and learned best in an intellectual and social environment that encourages candor and respect in the expression of difference.
The engineering profession plays a central role in improving the quality of life for people around the world. If our profession is to continue making that contribution, we must
- engage the knowledge and talents of our diverse population,
- increase the viability of engineering as a career option for all individuals, and
- promote the pursuit of engineering careers.
Within the U.S., women, African-Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans continue to be particularly under-represented in engineering. While some progress has been made, increased participation by these groups becomes even more critical as the demographics of the population and the workforce continue to change.
Therefore, the undersigned commit their engineering organizations to a goal of diversity with equity through:
- establishing as a priority the education, recruitment, retention, and advancement of all people in engineering and technology education and the engineering profession;
- building collaborations and linking or aligning efforts among engineering societies, corporations, educational institutions, foundations and governmental bodies that share a commitment to these aims; and
- focusing our resources on efforts with the greatest evidence of impact.
Through a collaborative approach we can ensure a diverse and viable future for the engineering profession, a future that maximizes the profession’s benefits to society.