Neal LaneDirector
Continuing progress in science and engineering is essential to meeting the
Nation's goals of improved international competitiveness and enhanced economic and
social well-being for all citizens. The full utilization of our human resources
is a vital factor in the realization of this objective.
For a variety of historical and cultural reasons, participation in science and
engineering in the United States has not reflected the diversity of the Nation's
population. This report documents the different rates at which groups in the
population are represented in science and engineering. Traditionally
underrepresented groups - racial/ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, and
women - have made progress, but in different degrees.
This volume, the seventh in a series of biennial reports to the Congress, the
administration, and others who direct public policy, describes the status of
groups traditionally underrepresented in science and engineering. It also
documents factors important to choice of study and to success in pursuing science
and engineering. Encouragement of all the Nation's people to participate in
science and engineering at each stage of the educational process and in the
workforce must be a paramount concern if we are to broaden representation in these
fields. The data and analyses presented here can help inform both the continued
formulation of policies to increase participation and the evaluation of their
effects.
Neal Lane
Director
