Population Goals
Addressing a complex challenge is often framed as a binary choice: universal solutions that benefit all groups or targeted interventions focused on specific populations. However, this either/or perspective oversimplifies the problem, risks excluding community needs, and can detract from the broader goal of parity in access and participation.
To position Philadelphia as a leading talent and innovation hub, PSEC is adopting an approach known as targeted universalism. This strategy integrates universal goals with targeted actions, customized to the structural and cultural dynamics of specific communities. By analyzing public data, PSEC pinpoints areas where STEM inequities are most pronounced and/or where interventions can deliver the greatest impact. These insights guide the implementation of solutions that address barriers to participation. Through targeted universalism, PSEC aims to create inclusive systems that meet the unique needs of underserved communities while advancing universal STEM access for all.
Hypothesis
If access and inclusion are present, then the percentage of a given demographic group in the STEM labor force is the same as the percentage of the working population for that same group.
Population Data Objective
To track the current make-up of the STEM labor force in Philadelphia through analysis of data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey. If the hypothesis above is true for a demographic group their access index is 1, or greater.
Graph #1
% STEM labor force and % working population are plotted as bar graphs to illustrate the percentage representation of demographic race and sex groups
Data & Methodology
Graph #2
​​​​The Multi-years Index graph above is used to monitor progress of
STEM access over time.
Despite Philadelphia’s rich diversity, the STEM labor force does not reflect the demographics of the city’s working-age population. Persistent disparities in representation among Black, Latine, and women groups highlight systemic barriers to access and inclusion that must be addressed to broaden & diversify participation in STEM careers and unlock the full potential of Philadelphia’s talent.
Increasing STEM participation among Black, Latine, and women groups is not only a matter of access but also essential for driving economic growth and prosperity for all Philadelphians. Constituting the majority of the city’s working-age population, these groups represent untapped talent that can strengthen Philadelphia’s competitiveness as a STEM hub.