Final answer:
Since the 1960s, the inclusion of women and people of color in STEM has improved, yet disparities persist. Initiatives like AAUW and NASA's programs encourage participation, but women remain underrepresented at higher career levels, impacting economic growth and innovation potential.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changes in Employment for Women and People of Color in STEM Since the 1960s-
The experience of women and people of color working in STEM fields has evolved significantly since the 1960s. Initially, jobs often available to women in the labor market were in areas such as home economics, secretarial work, and medical assisting. Pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and math was much more challenging due to societal and professional barriers, with a marked difference between opportunities for white women and women of color.
Despite being underrepresented and often discouraged, women like Mexican-American scientist Lydia Villa-Komaroff overcame formidable obstacles. The discrimination Villa-Komaroff faced and her subsequent achievements highlight the potential economic and social impact of inclusive innovation. She developed the first synthetic insulin, contributing significantly to the biotechnology industry. Economic studies, including those by Lisa D. Cook, have shown that greater inclusivity in STEM could lead to a substantial increase in GDP.
Organizations such as AAUW and NASA have established STEM programs to support and encourage young girls and women in these fields. Nevertheless, today women still find themselves underrepresented, especially at senior academic and professional levels. This ongoing disparity emphasizes the importance of continued efforts toward gender equality and diversity in STEM careers.