I CAN STEM

I CAN STEM

Through I CAN STEM, we can broaden the scope of where and to whom STEM is accessible. By spotlighting significant STEM creators and innovators from a variety of circumstances, we can spread the message that STEM is meant for everyone. We believe that taking this small but crucial step toward making STEM more inclusive will go a long way in preparing our state and our country for the many challenges ahead.

The need to bring historically disenfranchised groups into the STEM fold drove the creation of the I Can STEM campaign

As the landscape of the American workforce continues to diversify, industries throughout the country are recognizing the need to celebrate and promote the many different backgrounds making up the modern workplace – from people of color to those in the LGBTQ+ community. The STEM field is no different: talent from all walks of life must be encouraged to play a crucial role in the transition to a brighter and more innovative future. At the moment, however, STEM has a long way to go in addressing the current inequities that plague it.
Read moreAccording to Wired magazine, STEM is one of the fastest-growing job sectors in the United States. Despite that, Pew Research reports that Black and Hispanic workers continue to be underrepresented in the STEM workforce, while women, even with recent and significant progress, are still underrepresented in many STEM areas. Even New Jersey – a state with a predominantly female and minority population – mirrors these troubling national trends; the New Jersey Society of Professional Engineers points out that in addition to underrepresentation among women and people of color, Black and Hispanic children are disproportionately undereducated in math and science compared to their white and Asian counterparts throughout the state. As a result, highlighting members of the STEM field from traditionally marginalized or disadvantaged communities is vital to making sure that our industry is inclusive and accepting. Sources: Pew Research: ​Diversity-in-the-stem-workforce-varies-widely-across-jobs Wired: ​5-numbers-explain-stem-diversity-matters-us  NJSPE: ​importance-stem-education
View Our 2023 NJ "I CAN STEM" Inductees

Submit An "I Can STEM" Nomination

Phase 1:

Nominations

This is your opportunity to honor a STEM role model in your work place or community! The 2024 nomination form is now available!

Nominate

Phase 2:

Voting Begins

The NJSPN leads will review the nominees and select the finalists. Twelve role models will be chosen.

Phase 3:

Honoring the Winners

Each month, a finalist will be announced and featured on our website. Their stories will be shared in hopes of inspiring others who don’t often see themselves represented in STEM professions.