Inclusive Practices in the Classroom, Laboratory and Workplace

Changing the climate for underrepresented minorities in Materials Science and Engineering, and other STEM fields, is one issue at the forefront of broadening participation in these areas. The solution to effecting this change is not a sweeping singular event, but instead a mobilization of each member of the community to take action towards diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Across academic and industrial professions, there is an increasing emphasis on a potential job candidate’s DEI efforts – with many job applications as well as promotion packets requiring a statement on the candidate’s activities and interests around DEI. But for many, deciding what exactly one’s interests are – and how to promote DEI in classroom, research lab, and professional settings, can feel daunting to say the least. Additionally, sometimes it can be difficult to envision the change that is needed to reach an improved climate for underrepresented groups. However, small steps taken in all of these settings can go a long way in improving the climate for everyone, and by recognizing these small actions, we can not only learn about how to promote DEI in our own professions but also gain perspective on the activities that can make a big impact, but also suit our personalities and interests.<br/>In this presentation, I will share some ideas for best practices to create an inclusive learning, research, and work environment and how those practices can become structured parts of our professional lives. I will also outline the vision of what an inclusive, diverse, and equitable Materials Science and Engineering workplace and educational space could look like – and how to selectively participate in achieving this vision by leveraging your strengths and interests towards activities that have demonstrated impact in promoting DEI.