The PROGRESS (PROmoting Geoscience, Research, Education and SuccesS) Program aims to recruit and mentor STEM undergraduates who identify as women who are interested in the Earth and Environmental Sciences through a combination of formal and informal, professional and peer mentoring.
Introduction to PROGRESS
The geosciences play a critical role in solving challenges like climate change, energy, air quality, water, food security, and natural disasters. Yet women, racial/ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and visible sexual minorities remain significantly underrepresented in the field.
PROGRESS is a mentoring program that helps undergraduate women explore education and career opportunities in the earth and environmental sciences. Launched in 2015 with support from the National Science Foundation, PROGRESS has reached students at more than 20 universities across five regions.
The core program components are:
- Regional kick-off workshops to build community and confidence
- One-on-one mentoring with local scientists
- Invitations to campus and professional events
- Ongoing peer support through GroupMe
- Professional development webinars
Why it Matters
Research shows that PROGRESS helps women:
- Persist in geoscience majors at higher rates
- Build stronger mentoring and role model networks
- Develop a stronger science identity and career intentions
By connecting students with mentors, networks, and inspiration, PROGRESS strengthens pathways for women in the geosciences—and offers a model that can be adapted across STEM.
PROGRESSers!
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation Improving Undergraduate STEM Education Program: DUE #s 2013318, 2013333, 2013323, 2013312, 2013326. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.