Building Engineering & Science Talent

Building Engineering and Science Talent (BEST) is a public-private partnership driven by a bold vision: to empower all Americans to fuel the future of science and technology. We address the critical need to diversify the pipeline of talent entering STEM fields, ensuring that the United States maintains its leading edge in innovation and competitiveness.

Our Mission

Backed by seed funding from a coalition of federal agencies, BEST champions initiatives that broaden the participation of women and historically underrepresented minorities (U.S. citizens and permanent residents) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). We tackle this systemic challenge with deep understanding and extensive expertise, honed through over 15 years of collaborative work with stakeholders across the nation.

Expertise & Services

Drawing on years of experience, BEST offers a diverse arsenal of services tailored to address the unique challenges of STEM diversity:

Research & Evaluation

• Developing and disseminating impactful data-driven insights to inform policy and program decisions.
• Delivering evaluations for government agencies, private foundations, and leading corporations.

Communications & Strategy

• Crafting compelling narratives and visuals to raise awareness and inspire action.
• Developing and implementing strategic campaigns to drive meaningful change in STEM fields.

Community Engagement

• Collaborating with K-12 schools, higher education institutions and prominent STEM organizations to deliver engaging STEM programs and professional development opportunities to students from underserved communities.

Event Management

• Organizing and executing high-impact conferences, summits, and other events on critical STEM diversity issues.

Leadership & Vision

BEST is guided by a dedicated team of experts led by President Karen Harper, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in human capital management and workforce development. Our board and advisors consist of influential figures in STEM, government, and the private sector, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful approach to our mission.