On September 12, 2024, we hosted a roundtable entitled "Addressing the Black Talent Skills Gap in STEM" at The Cambridge Union, kindly sponsored by Marks & Clerk LLP. Attracting, recruiting, and retaining the best talent is crucial to the success of the tech industry. Research and experience have shown a clear problem specifically with the attraction of early career Black talent and the attrition of Black talent across middle management and senior-level roles.

This invite-only roundtable discussion provided a forum for industry leaders, academia, and governmental organizations to address these challenges and discuss how to build a sustainable pipeline of Black talent, while creating an environment that supports their retention, progression, and the organization's ongoing ability to innovate.

Our discussions also explored the intersectionality between Black talent and other minority groups, including women and neurodiverse workers.

Keynote Speaker

● Lord Simon Woolley – Principal, Homerton College, University of Cambridge

Lord Simon Woolley’s, keynote addressed the urgency of recognizing a wave of young Black talent who are not successfully transitioning from school to industry, despite their real ambition.

Featured Speaker

● Anthony Adiotomre – Young Black Talent & Leadership in STEM Ambassador

Anthony shared his experiences leading up to becoming a mechanical engineer, discussing the mindset shift required as he transitioned from being a student to working in the industry.

The message that resonated throughout the event was the importance of creating an environment where Black talent does not just survive but flourishes.

Key Messages from the Discussion

● Inspiration: We need to inspire a generation to recognize their value, as the success of talent benefits us all.

● Long-Term Focus: A sustained approach is necessary to address underrepresentation, requiring industry leaders to engage in uncomfortable conversations and utilize data to measure the impact of their actions.

● Support for Education: Supporting schools and educating parents about industry possibilities is crucial for nurturing future talent.

● Importance of Mentorship: While mentorship and role models are essential, there is a high demand that often outstrips available resources.

Call to Action

This roundtable underscored BTLS's commitment to addressing the Black talent skills gap in STEM and fostering an inclusive environment where all professionals can thrive. The consensus was clear: a holistic approach is essential. We must work with schools to promote STEM learning, collaborate with colleges and universities to ensure readiness, and partner with employers to facilitate seamless transitions into the workplace. Join us in our mission to inspire and empower Black talent, ensuring they not only enter the industry but also flourish in their careers.