Team members at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville are sharing resources and knowledge as part of the PAWES planning grant to ensure the potential Engineering Research Center (ERC) fosters a culture of diversity and inclusion.

Engineering fields have historically been extractive in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities. As a land-grant institution, the University of Tennessee is committed to eliminating this practice to ensure mutually beneficial, reciprocal exchange of knowledge and resources between all socio-economic classes, ethnicities, and cultures. This effort will build upon existing regional networks to foster participation and inclusivity in areas with significant need for science and engineering training, including alliances with the Appalachian Leadership Institute, the Appalachian Teaching Project, Indigenous Nations/Tribal Communities, and geographically remote communities. Working together, PAWES will promote diversity in thought and innovation through inclusive partnerships and deep collaboration across a variety of ethnic, racial, socioeconomic, gender identities, and academic backgrounds.