Authors:
Laura Gonzales, Ph.D., The University of Florida
Joy Robinson, Ph.D., The University of Alabama at Hunstville
Ann Shivers-McNair, Ph.D., The University of Arizona
Clarissa San Diego, Ph.D., Makerologist

Policy Memo #6
DATE

Women of Color in Humanities a hidden tech talent pool
SUMMARY
Tech leaders often report that hundreds of thousands of high quality
jobs go unfulfilled in the U.S. due to talent shortages, especially among
women of color (WOC). Although women of color and their talents are
consistently overlooked in science and technology industries,
underrepresentation may make it challenging to recruit significant
numbers of minority women from traditional STEM majors. Casting a
wider recruiting net may be the key to unlocking an untapped talent
pool. Incorporating the perspectives of WOC humanities majors can
assist the tech industry with designing systems and tools for racially,
linguistically, and culturally diverse users while also addressing
disparities and broadening opportunities for underrepresented
communities to enter the field.

INTRODUCTION

A recent pilot study demonstrated how WOC in
humanities can use their perspectives, experiences,
and backgrounds to support the development of
more localized, user-centered technologies.
Provided with collaborative networking and
mentorship opportunities, the fellows gained skills
and insight into the principles of User-Centered
Design (UCD) and the field of User Experience
(UX). Having no formal training in technology prior to
joining the study, in just one year the participants
were able to design and present research projects
in User Experience (UX) to industry professionals.
Participating in weekly mentor meetings and
workshops throughout the pilot enhanced the
women’s self-efficacy, as they all reported feeling
capable of working alongside tech professionals.
However, the participants also noted real and
perceived barriers to gaining entry into tech careers.

With new skills and confidence,
study fellows have begun mentoring
other students from marginalized
backgrounds interested in UCD/UX.
All four women in the pilot study
successfully completed research
projects and sought employment in
tech-related jobs.
For more information contact authors Laura Gonzales gonzalesl@ufl.edu

As a result of this pilot, an
undergraduate major in
User-Experience was
developed and approved
in the English Department
at The University of Texas
at El Paso.

Fellows’ Concerns
• Linguistic and racial backgrounds
• Visa status
• Lack of formal training in technology
• Template language on tech job applications
too narrow
A second phase of this study is being designed to
extend the impact of the pilot and address some of
the concerns expressed by phase one participants.
In the interim, study authors invite tech leaders to:
• Consider the way job postings may
discourage
non-traditional,
yet
qualified
candidates from applying for positions and work
with HR to incorporate more inclusive language
centered around skills and experience, rather than
disciplinary background or training.
• Make visa requirements and sponsorship
opportunities explicit on job postings
• Consider recruiting women of color from
humanities programs and other relevant,
non-STEM majors for positions in UX and UCD.
• Partner with innovative colleges or
departments to bolster support for programs
that extend tech opportunities to women of color
and other underrepresented students while also
leveraging their unique perspectives and
experiences.
•https://www.cnbc.com/2019/11/06/how-switching-careers-to-techcould-solve-the-us-talent-shortage.html