As technology advances, opportunities abound. Today, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers continue to significantly outpace non-STEM jobs in growth and earnings. However, African-Americans, Hispanics and women are significantly underrepresented in STEM fields. Together, with our partners, Toyota is working to change that.
Toyota’s involvement in West Dallas is a great example. Beyond donating dollars, Toyota is applying a holistic approach to improve access to opportunity, engaging internal resources like Toyota business partnering groups (BPGS) and coordinating local and national non-profits to collectively address community needs.
The three areas of focus include:
Workforce Readiness: Toyota is helping to create a business-aligned, project-based STEM curriculum with Southern Methodist University at a new Dallas ISD PK-8 school to help prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow. Toyota is also engaging local BPGs to provide mentorship, and engaging long-term partners like the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, to provide scholarships.
Inclusive Mobility Solutions: Beyond providing passenger safety programs like Buckle up For Life, Toyota is working to improve access to education and job opportunities through new mobility solutions.
Community Sustainability and Resilience: Access to healthcare and healthy food is critical to quality of life. That’s why the company is working with hospitals to improve quality of care, as well as working on a mobile food market with the University of North Texas to address food deserts.