Reflecting on productive and meaningful discussions at the 2024 annual meeting of the NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Cooperative Science Center in Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology (NCAS-M) grant with Howard University as the lead institution where MNA had the privilege to lead the evaluation discussions and present year 1 findings to date.
Data underscores a critical issue: underrepresented minorities (URMs) are significantly low in numbers in atmospheric science. URMs represent less than 10% of professionals in the field. This highlights the urgent need to address this vast disparity and promote diversity and inclusion in atmospheric science.
The meeting focused on addressing this challenge, with discussions on broadening participation and engagements with NOAA’s line offices, advancing interdisciplinary research collaborations, internships, and increasing student hires to various NOAA positions. It was inspiring to see the commitment across the board to advancing student training, research, and increasing URM representation in all NOAA positions.
We’re excited to continue supporting these ongoing efforts and look forward to a future where all voices are heard in atmospheric science.
