• Français
Future Skills Center logo
Français
Polygon Created with Sketch. Home | Research
Research

Indigenous STEM Access Programs: Leading Post-Secondary Inclusion

This Issue briefing discusses the impact of current programs for Indigenous learners in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in post-secondary education. They are one approach to increase Indigenous inclusion in these fields.

Executive Summary

The transition from high school to post-secondary education (PSE) is a time of uncertainty for many students. Educational, cultural, and economic challenges make this transition even more complex for Indigenous learners transferring into PSE in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

In PSE institutions across Canada, access and retention programs for Indigenous STEM learners aim to increase the number of Indigenous people working in STEM fields. These programs support individual students and promote institutional change. However, the limits of their success demonstrate how change is needed across the broader education system.

Indigenous STEM Access Programs: Leading Post-Secondary Inclusion shows that current STEM-focused access and retention programs in PSE are having an impact. These programs are one approach on a continuum of strategies to increase Indigenous inclusion in the STEM fields that are critical to the future economy.

Related Content

Young man in overalls eating sandwich and talking to his colleagues during lunch at warehouse
Research

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Backlash? What Canadian Workers Really Think

  • November 2025
  • Diversity Institute, Environics Institute
There has been limited data about how Canadian workers themselves feel about increased EDI workplace scrutiny and backlash. Our research reveals that despite some vocal opposition, the data shows that most Canadians view EDI measures in the workplace positively, with strong support among equity-deserving groups, younger workers and those with positive job experiences.
1 Related Reports
Skyline of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Research

Do Immigrants Cause Higher Housing Prices? Myths and Realities about Immigrants, Housing and the Labour Market

  • October 2025
  • Diversity Institute
This research finds that while there is a correlation between immigration and housing price increases, immigration is not necessarily the primary cause.
2 Related Reports
Man sitting on street against glass skyscraper using a tablet with stylus
Research

The Productivity Potential of Automation Technologies

  • October 2025
  • The Conference Board of Canada
Automation technologies present Canadian businesses with opportunities for improved productivity, labour efficiencies, and growth. Adopting automation technologies will change how industries operate, including the types of jobs and skills needed.
1 Related Reports