“Diversity is key for success”: Why engineering needs more BAME women - an exploration of the underrepresentation of Black women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) careers and education

Abstract

This paper explores the underrepresentation of Black women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths careers and education, making the argument that engineering would benefit from the inclusion of more women from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. Arguing that diversity is key for success, the author reviews and critiques the key theories of intersectionality and Critical Race Theory. Concluding that racism and sexism remain relevant issues in society, the author calls for categories of oppression (including race and sex) to be considered collectively. In doing so, the author argues for the value of adopting an intersectional approach in the study of diversity.