Implementing multiple approaches to diversify the geosciences: Successes and lessons learned from student and professional training programs.

In this talk I will cover current challenges in engaging underrepresented groups in Geoscience as well as, new opportunities to engage diverse populations who can contribute to a scientific workforce that will need new perspectives and skills to address the emerging needs of 21^st century Geoscience research. Recent NSF survey demonstrates that approximately 8% of all graduate students enrolled in Geoscience related programs, identify as a member of an underrepresented group. These declining trends continue into the professional Geoscience workforce. Given recent demographic shifts, it's imperative to identify potential barriers to and, new strategies for recruiting, engaging and retaining populations historically underrepresented in Geoscience. In the United States this issue is especially pressing as current demographic data demonstrate large shifts in the country's ethnic composition with little reflection of this change seen in the ranks of U.S. STEM institutions. These current trends should be of concern as many of these groups, such as Hispanics, African Americans, Pacific Islanders and Native Americans, and their talents are noticeably underrepresented in STEM. Within science disciplines that struggle to attract students from diverse backgrounds, the Geosciences have had significant struggles in attracting students from backgrounds historically underrepresented in STEM. Here I describe best practices, successes and challenges in delivering training programs aimed that not only engage underrepresented students in Geoscience but, provide professional scientists with the skill sets to engage diverse student populations.