As of November 19, 2024, highly digital jobs, categorized as 'CEM' (Computing, Engineering, and Mathematics), now account for over 25% of all jobs in the United States, a significant increase from 18% in 2010 and just 9% in 2002. These CEM jobs offer an average salary of $122,000 annually, which is notably higher than the national average of $65,000 [349b822d].
However, the concentration of these jobs is alarming, with half located in only 30 metropolitan areas, raising concerns about equitable access to these lucrative opportunities [349b822d]. The workforce in CEM occupations is disproportionately represented by women and Black, Latino, Hispanic, and Indigenous workers, highlighting a critical need for proactive policies aimed at reducing disparities based on race and gender [349b822d].
To address these inequities, federal investments are being directed towards initiatives that aim to bridge demographic and geographic divides in the digital economy [349b822d]. Nonetheless, emerging political efforts threaten to roll back support for underrepresented groups, which could exacerbate existing disparities [349b822d].
Sustained investment and innovative approaches are deemed essential for fostering a competitive digital economy that is inclusive and equitable for all [349b822d]. This aligns with broader discussions in Latin America, where events such as the APD and Clan Nativus conference in Bogotá emphasize the importance of digital skills and technological inclusion for economic growth [48bb4652].
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, both the U.S. and Latin America face the challenge of ensuring that all workers have access to the skills and opportunities necessary to thrive in this new economy [48bb4652].