On Wednesday, November 19, SHPE Board Strategic Committee Member Karen Santos participated as a panelist in the “Building the Latino Tech Workforce of the Future” session at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute’s (CHCI) 2025 Tech Summit. The discussion convened STEM ecosystem leaders to explore how emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are transforming the future of work and how communities can prepare for both the opportunities and challenges ahead.

The topic was especially relevant for SHPE, as the Hispanic workforce has long been a long time cornerstone for industries being reshaped by technology. This pivotal moment calls for creating clear pathways into emerging sectors and leadership roles to ensure Hispanic professionals remain at the forefront of innovation.

To open the session, U.S. Representative Linda Sánchez delivered powerful remarks urging the audience to view technology as a bridge to greater opportunity, not a barrier to progress. She emphasized the need for affordable devices, high-quality digital training, and expanded broadband access to close the digital divide and drive growth across both rural and urban communities.

Throughout the panel, speakers examined how the rise of AI is redefining not only the nature of work, but also how individuals find meaning and purpose in it. They agreed that beyond salary and stability, meaningful work increasingly revolves around purpose, innovation, and long-term impact. While automation often dominates the conversation, panelists emphasized that AI can amplify human potential by elevating unique human strengths such as creativity, discernment, judgment, and problem-solving.

The conversation also underscored that building a strong and resilient talent pipeline requires more than just technical expertise. Panelists highlighted that soft skills such as communication, adaptability, and leadership are just as essential for long-term professional success. As Karen Santos shared, “SHPE leadership initiatives, such as NILA, help our members strengthen their ability to tune into their chapter’s needs, manage community outreach, and pursue cross-sector industry collaboration opportunities, all of which enhance their interpersonal skills and expand their professional networks.”

The unifying message of the panel was that the future of technology, and the workforce it shapes, will depend on deliberate investment in up-skilling, access to education, and opportunity. With the Hispanic workforce contributing an estimated $3.2 trillion to the U.S. economy, panelists underscored that developing strong talent pipelines is not only vital for community advancement but also for sustaining national economic competitiveness. By expanding pathways for professional growth and innovation, the U.S. can unlock higher productivity, generate quality jobs, and ensure that technology remains a powerful engine of prosperity for all communities and businesses across the country.

Reflecting on the discussion, SHPE Board Member Alejandra Leija shared, “Technological progress must include and empower everyone. That means investing in continuous learning and expanding access to technical education so professionals can thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. At SHPE, we remain committed to ensuring the Hispanic community leads, without any lags, in shaping the future of innovation.”

The day’s discussions offered more than insights. It inspired a shared vision for a future where today’s workforce is empowered to lead in tomorrow’s economy. SHPE extends its heartfelt gratitude to CHCI President and CEO Marco Davis and his team for their partnership and dedication to fostering collaboration between government and industry leaders. Together, we are shaping the policies, innovations, and opportunities that will define America’s technological and economic progress for generations to come.

On September 29, the SHPE Colorado Professional Chapter partnered with Compass Academy to host Noche de Ciencias, a “Night of Science”, bringing students and community partners together for an afternoon of hands-on, engaging STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning.

SHPE Colorado volunteers led a range of interactive activities designed to spark creativity and curiosity, and they not only brought technical expertise but also served as inspiring role models, helping students see themselves in STEM professionals and showing that a future in these fields is both possible and within reach.

This partnership was made possible through the enthusiasm and leadership of Martin Zaborac, Instructional Coach at Compass Academy. With a background in mathematics, Martin embraced this initiative as an opportunity to expand access to STEM education and inspire students across the Denver community.

Special guests from the offices of U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, and U.S. Representative Diana DeGette attended to learn more about SHPE Colorado’s community-driven efforts to advance Hispanics in STEM. Their presence highlighted the value of programs like Noche de Ciencias, which, in partnership with schools like Compass Academy, foster informal STEM learning opportunities that empower students to explore, experiment, and envision themselves as future innovators. By combining the expertise of SHPE volunteers with Compass Academy’s commitment to delivering impactful STEM experiences, these programs strengthen Denver’s STEM talent pipeline and nurture students’ belief that they, too, can thrive as future leaders in science and technology.

SHPE’s Noche de Ciencias™ (NdC) program is a national initiative that engages and motivates Hispanic and non-Hispanic youth to pursue STEM degrees and careers. Organized by SHPE Professional and University Chapters nationwide, these events connect students with local role models and mentors who show what’s possible through a STEM education.

Together, we are creating pathways for the next generation of Hispanic leaders in STEM.

In this special podcast episode, SHPE CEO Suzanna Valdez Wolfe sits down with Congresswoman Luz Rivas, an MIT-trained electrical engineer, non-profit founder, and the only Latina in Congress with a STEM background for a powerful conversation about her inspiring journey.

From growing up in the San Fernando Valley to shaping policy in Washington, Congresswoman Rivas shares how her technical expertise informs her work as a legislator and advocate.

Together, they explore the intersection of leadership, service, and STEM, and how a career in science and engineering can be a catalyst for lasting community impact.

LISTEN HERE ON SPOTIFY

LISTEN HERE ON APPLE

On September 15, Congresswoman Luz Rivas introduced House Resolution 718, a bipartisan measure focused on improving Latino participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). As the only Latina in Congress with a STEM background and Co-Chair of the STEM Education Caucus, Rep. Rivas brings a unique perspective that resonates deeply with SHPE’s mission. Her leadership highlights why representation matters. Not just in the classroom or the workplace, but also in spaces where priorities are set and decisions about the future of innovation are made.

Building on this commitment to representation, SHPE had the privilege of contributing to this effort by adding notable data from the 2024 SHPE-LDC U.S. Latinos in Engineering and Tech Report, which highlights key motivators driving Latino interest and persistence in STEM. The findings further underscore the community’s eagerness to contribute, innovate, and make a lasting impact on society.

Moreover, the Resolution emphasizes that when Latino students are empowered to explore their curiosity and creativity, the impact extends well beyond a single community. A stronger STEM workforce that reflects the full range of talent in our country fuels innovation, drives new solutions, and strengthens America’s competitiveness in the global economy. 

This vision is already becoming a reality. Latino students and professionals are contributing groundbreaking ideas and shaping the future of STEM today. With mentorship, visibility, and consistent investment, their impact will only expand. That’s why policy, education, and community partnerships must align to ensure every Latino student sees STEM not only as a possibility, but as a space where they belong and can lead.

At SHPE, we are deeply grateful for our partnerships with schools, universities, and companies that make it possible to continue driving change. Whether through STEM events, mentorship programs, or by opening doors to internships and scholarships, these collaborations expand opportunities for Latino students and professionals. This resolution underscores the value of such efforts, highlighting that Latino talent is not only vital to our community but essential to America’s progress.

Here’s what the resolution sets out to do:

• Promote economic empowerment by supporting more Latino men and women in STEM.
• Acknowledge the underrepresentation of Latinos in STEM and its cost to industries and the broader economy.
• Call for greater investment in Latino communities to develop a strong and diverse STEM workforce.
• Encourage federal support for programs that expand Latino access to STEM pathways, especially in engineering.
• Recognize the key role of Hispanic-Serving Institutions and other colleges in preparing Latino students for STEM careers.

Each of us has a role to play in STEM. What’s next?

• Advocate locally: Support STEM electives, after-school programs, or SHPE chapter partnerships that prepare students for college and beyond.
• Mentor or volunteer: Share your story, guide a student, or open a door that could change someone’s life.
• Amplify the message: Let others know why this resolution matters to you and encourage them to share their own journeys in STEM.

See Congresswoman Rivas press release HERE.

This past month, a group of SHPE representatives traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet members of Congress and key staff, bringing an urgent message about how SHPE is proactively delivering solutions to address the nation’s workforce shortages. This visit came at a critical time, as policymakers weigh new investments and strategies to sustain U.S. leadership in science, technology, and innovation. 

With nearly 12 million new STEM jobs projected in the next 6 years, SHPE delegates emphasized the organization’s five-decade legacy of delivering measurable results through tailored programs in education, mentorship, and career readiness. Over the years, the organization has consistently closed opportunity gaps, advanced innovation, promoted entrepreneurship, and contributed meaningfully to the strength of the U.S. economy. As the STEM economy continues to grow, SHPE’s longstanding investments in accessibility and building a strong talent pipeline prove to be vital.  

During their visit to Congress, the delegation called on lawmakers to accelerate strategic partnerships with STEM-focused nonprofits like SHPE. By expanding access to informal STEM learning and supporting professional readiness at every career stage, SHPE continues to play a critical role in growing the STEM talent pool in the country. As a leading national organization delivering high-impact wraparound programs that serve students and professionals when needed most, SHPE has proactively addressed recurring and emerging workforce needs nationwide. 

SHPE delegates shared personal stories about how federal investments in STEM education and careers transformed their lives. As accomplished engineers, entrepreneurs, organization leaders, and respected innovators in their fields, they spoke from lived experience, underscoring both the transformational power of opportunity and the responsibility they feel to create it for others.  

I know that SHPE’s impact is real because I am a product of it. Growing up in a household where ‘engineering’ was never a commonly used word, I found in SHPE the support and mentorship that guided me through my STEM journey and led me to where I am today. That is why I remain committed to investing my time to support and advocate for the next generation of Hispanic STEMists. Advocacy in STEM is not just valuable, it is necessary. It ensures that students from all backgrounds can envision a future in these fields, access meaningful opportunities, and develop the confidence to lead. – William Gonzalez, Former 7 Region RVP 

“Being back on the Hill to advocate for SHPE’s community felt like a full-circle moment one that built on past momentum and deepened our commitment to progress. We highlighted SHPE’s role not only in expanding access, but in tackling pressing national challenges like closing the STEM workforce gap, driving skill-building efforts, and addressing the often-overlooked issue of ‘brain drain’. This experience was a powerful reminder that policy and representation go hand-in-hand when it comes to growing the STEM pipeline.” – Karen Santos, Former Board Secretary 

As a booming population segment and vital driver of economic growth, consumer spending, innovation, and entrepreneurship, the Hispanic community will be central to national efforts intended to solve the nation’s STEM workforce shortfall. Expanding Hispanic participation across all STEM fields, from early education to advanced research and executive leadership, is essential to building a resilient and sustainable economy. 

For over 50 years, SHPE has made a measurable impact on the availability of quality STEM talent through its 1000,000+ strong all-time membership. SHPE remains committed in its mission to drive meaningful progress to close the skills gap and empower the next generation of STEM leaders. Visits like these to Capitol Hill and to those at the local level remind our lawmakers of the growing need for STEM talent and SHPE’s unique position to help fill that need. 

Interested in learning how to deliver this message to your local lawmakers? We can make that happen! Please reach out to Mariana Acuna Delgado at [email protected] to discuss the opportunity.