Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

About oSTEM

Mission

oSTEM is a national LGBTQ-affirming organization whose mission is to:

• Provide services and support for students of sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
• Create a dynamic network between students and professionals in industry and academia.
• Provide education, outreach, and professional resources to high school students.
• Actively recruit and address the needs of diverse groups within the LGBTA community, inclusive of those who are historically underrepresented with regards to gender and ethnic background.
  

History of oSTEM

Our nation has celebrated and supported diversity in science and engineering with national student groups such as Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), and National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).

In October 2005, IBM sponsored a focus group where students from across the United States convened at the Human Rights Campaign headquarters in Washington D.C.

The students discussed topics relevant to LGBTQ communities at their own colleges and universities and debated how to structure an organization serving students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

oSTEM, which stands for Out in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, emerged from the focus group as a new national technical student society for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender communities.

Please see our chapters page for more details.

Future of oSTEM

Although young, oSTEM has the potential to propel the LGBTQ community forward with innovative opportunities.  To help or to start an oSTEM chapter at your College or University, please email us at info@ostem.org.