Episode 9: Diversity in STEM and Clean Energy
What You'll Learn in This Episode
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The importance of HBCUs in providing a strong foundation for students of color in STEM fields.
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How the Department of Energy is working to diversify the pipeline of students entering clean energy careers
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The critical need for new talent in the hydropower industry as many current workers approach retirement
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The role of competitions and prizes in engaging students with emerging fields like algae-based bioenergy
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Challenges in implementing consistent renewable energy policies across different U.S. states
Impactful Quotes
"Little things that you might be working on now, little programs that you've had in effect that are developing, those things can come to fruition at any time if you go to a new organization, a new place."
"We don't have a proper…pipeline of people to jump in and take the helm."
"Not only are we needing to expose kids to all of these different topic areas, but we've got to drive interest…we've got to really get people understanding."
"If we had that green light that you talk about, and if you could fully implement and connect to the grid in all of the ways that are out there and that are possible, if you could do that, we would really benefit the people of this country so much because we would have access to lower cost energy."
"For every area of the country to really take advantage of the natural resources that they have, and to take advantage of the connected technologies that could go along with those natural resources to help be able to, lower cost for people for constituents in those areas to be able to provide jobs for people in those areas."