Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are essential to America’s economic growth and global competitiveness. The United States has a growing demand for STEM workers in 21st century jobs. Among the fastest growing jobs, 80 percent require math or science skills and there are currently over 600,000 unfilled jobs in the information technology sector alone. Research indicates that diversity in teams can drive innovation, yet historically, women, minorities, and people with disabilities have been underrepresented in STEM careers. Although they comprise a majority of college students, women and minorities represent a largely untapped talent pool for STEM. Dr. Ford will share insights from her in work in the Obama Administration on parental engagement, STEM education (k-12 and postsecondary) and workforce issues, as well as the role of entertainment media as the next frontier of STEM inclusion.