Indigenous pathways to STEM: Successes, barriers, and next steps across Turtle Island

Indigenous pathways to STEM: Successes, barriers, and next steps across Turtle Ssland Anisha Vatti, Dr. Colin M. Gibson, Dr. Dawn Martin-Hill, Dr. Duncan Cree, and Rebecca Jamieson examine Indigenous pathways to STEM, highlighting successes, barriers, and future steps across Turtle Island. Indigenous Peoples are under-represented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across Turtle Island. In Canada, Indigenous Peoples make up nearly 5% of the population but less than 1% of licensed engineers (2). In the United States, American Indians and Alaska Natives make up 12% of the population, yet less than 0.3% of licensed engineers (3). These disparities are not due to a lack of interest or ability; they stem from systemic inequities in K-12 education, financial and geographic barriers, and the limited integration of Indigenous Knowledge within post- secondary institutions. This article examines how universities, governments, and institutions can strengthen Indigenous representation in STEM.