Latinos in technology occupations give Illinois a competitive edge in new global markets where bilingual communication and cultural competence are key advantages.
But if Latinos remain under represented in technology, Illinois will not be able to keep up, much less lead in industries that will serve as the backbone of the new economy.
Key Findings- In 2007 Latinos were employed in only 5.5% of information technology jobs nationally and only 5.8% of key non-IT high technology jobs.
- Latinos are under represented in high tech and information technology and in science and engineering, including faculty positions in universities, technical occupations, and advanced occupations.
- Latinos in science and engineering earn lower median salaries than all science and engineering workers, $60,000 for Latinos in 2003 compared to $66,000 for all workers.
- Latino youth tend to overlook the connection between good careers and achieving a solid foundation in English, mathematics, and science.
Recommendations
- Organizations and partner post-secondary schools should support more career and education fairs in STEM and offer students opportunities to meet and work with employers, Latino college and graduate students in STEM, and with Latino professionals, researchers and faculty in these fields.
- To stimulate the growth and development of new products, services, and markets, organizations and state and local development agencies, area and Latino chambers should convene and regularly host Latino networking gatherings and inventor/innovator forums, and should develop and maintain intelligence on Latino markets in the US and in Latin America.
- Organizations should develop and maintain a database of Latino-owned or operated production and service capabilities in Illinois able to serve high tech businesses and needs.