North Miami-Dade News

Reps. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and Tony Cárdenas (D-TX) have introduced a bipartisan resolution aimed at increasing the number of Latino students and young professionals pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The resolution recognizes the importance of Latinos in STEM fields and seeks to promote economic empowerment and sustainability within the Latino community and the broader American economy.

Speaking about the resolution, Rep. Salazar highlighted the significance of investing in education and workforce development. She emphasized that having more Latinos pursuing STEM degrees can contribute to the growth of the economy. Rep. Salazar stated, "Latinos, who are currently underrepresented in STEM fields, can and should help fill our country's need for more highly skilled and technical workers."

Rep. Cárdenas shared his personal experience of overcoming challenges and stereotypes to pursue a degree in engineering. He emphasized the transformative power of STEM education, stating, "This is why Congresswoman Salazar and I are fighting to empower more Latinos to pursue STEM careers. Enhancing opportunities for Latinos in STEM roles will strengthen our country and build the next generation of astronauts, inventors, leaders, and more."

The resolution has garnered bipartisan support in Congress and is also backed by the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). Miguel Alemany, CEO of SHPE, expressed gratitude for the representatives' commitment to promoting the vital role of the Hispanic community in shaping and cultivating a strong and skilled domestic workforce.

Despite accounting for approximately 18 percent of the U.S. population, Latinos represent less than 8 percent of the workforce in all STEM fields. However, a report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that Latinos will make up 22.4 percent of the overall workforce in 2030 and 30.3 percent in 2060. It is crucial to ensure that STEM fields are accessible and appealing to Latino students and young adults, considering the expected growth in the Latino population and the increasing demand for well-paying STEM jobs.

The resolution outlines several key points, including the goal of increasing Latino representation in science, engineering, technology, and mathematics to promote economic empowerment. It recognizes the underrepresentation of Latinos in STEM fields and acknowledges the need for diversity and inclusion to secure the nation's future as a leader in STEM. The resolution also encourages increased federal support for initiatives aimed at boosting the number of Latino students pursuing STEM education and career paths.

The resolution further highlights the important role that Hispanic-Serving Institutions and all colleges and universities must play in achieving these goals. These institutions will be instrumental in developing talented and capable STEM workers, reducing the nation's dependence on foreign workers, and fostering a strong and skilled domestic workforce.

To read the full text of the resolution, please visit the provided link.

In conclusion, the resolution introduced by Reps. Salazar and Cárdenas recognizes the importance of Latinos in STEM careers and seeks to increase their representation in these fields. By promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM education and career pathways, the resolution aims to empower the Latino community and contribute to the economic growth and sustainability of the United States.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazar-and-cardenas-introduce-resolution-recognize-latinos-stem-careers