Strengthening STEAM pathways in the United States with SHPE

Hispanic and Latino young people represent one of the fastest-growing segments of the US population and will be critically important to the nation’s future workforce. Yet they remain dramatically underrepresented across education pathways and high-value careers in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics). This is not because of a lack of talent or ambition. It’s often the result of barriers that limit many students from accessing rigorous learning, mentorship, networks and employment opportunities.

These barriers include:

• Financial barriers — The cost of materials, courses, extracurricular programs and higher education disproportionately affects low-income families.
• Lack of mentorship and role models — Students often cannot see themselves reflected in STEAM professionals, which directly affects persistence and confidence.
• Limited exposure to STEAM careers — Many students are not connected to industries, internships or real world learning experiences that spark interest and build networks.

That’s why the work of organisations like the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) in the US is so important. SHPE steps in to support students at critical points of their education journey, when competing pressures can force them to step away from their studies.

ScholarSHPE: Supporting Our Future

The GHD Foundation has partnered with SHPE to invest in student scholarships and support students with cultural connection, insight and timing that enables real change.

We’re directly supporting students, like David, who told us:

Your investment in my education enables me to focus entirely on what I’m passionate about: leveraging technology to solve real-world problems. Beyond the immediate impact, this scholarship validates my commitment to using my technical skills for social good. As I continue my studies and eventually enter the workforce, I carry with me the confidence that comes from knowing others believe in my potential to make a difference.

David S. MIT Class of 2027

This partnership reflects the GHD Foundation’s Theory of Change, which seeks to support young people from underrepresented and underserved communities to participate in, and complete, tertiary education in STEAM fields.

Thanks to organisations like SHPE, students are better supported to stay enrolled and focused on their studies, while continuing to progress toward STEAM careers. If we don’t act, disengagement increases, diversity in the talent pipeline narrows and inequity compounds over time.

Strengthening SHPE’s ability to deliver on its mission enables the GHD Foundation to help contribute to more resilient, inclusive communities and a stronger future STEAM workforce.