3M sets new STEM goal to empower underrepresented individuals

As part of our overall commitment to creating greater equity in our communities, business practices and workplaces, 3M is setting a new global, education-focused goal. The company will advance economic equity by creating five million unique STEM and Skilled Trades learning experiences for underrepresented individuals by the end of 2025.

“As a global science, technology and manufacturing company that operates across an incredible number of industries, 3M has the unique capability and opportunity to introduce all people to STEM and trades skills careers,” said Vice President of Community Relations, Michael Stroik. “That introduction can start with an experience that gives someone a peek of what could be or fully opens their mind to a path of opportunities they may or may not have ever been thought about. We want to be the catalyst to that spark, five million times over.”

Experiences being tracked toward 3M’s new goal include scholarships, internships and robust student services, varying experiential learning opportunities, 3Mgives monetary investments, and volunteerism. An example of an experience is 3M’s recent gift of $2.1 million to North Carolina Agriculture & Technical State University in support of their Equity and Education Initiative (E²I) – a new four-year program aimed at increasing the number of African American college graduates securing careers in fields critical to the nation’s workforce. The program will support undergraduate students with tailored resources and assistance as they pursue degrees in business, engineering and other professional disciplines.

“STEM and trade skills education has been a focus for the company for quite some time, but we felt it was important to publicly commit to support those who’ve been historically underrepresented and under invested in. We believe everyone deserves access to impactful and possibly life-changing STEM experiences. Also, publicly sharing this goal further demonstrates our commitment to equity, transparency and accountability,” shared Michael.

Starting Jan. 1, 2022, the experience-focused goal will be measured through the number of 3M-supported learning experiences in which individuals participate, including those pursuing credentials or degrees linked to family-sustaining job areas in STEM or skilled trades. Results will be reported publicly on an annual basis.

“We’ve seen in many studies that a career in STEM and skilled trades not only positively impacts the individual and economy financially, but it can also lead to innovations that impact the world,” said Michael. “We’re excited to share our commitment to helping someone start that journey through a thoughtful and meaningful experience.”