Why the FAIT Fellowship? In the fast-changing field of information technology, having talented and creative technology staff is critical to supporting our diplomatic efforts around the globe.
A diverse workforce brings innovation and creativity to the workplace, encourages fresh perspectives that inspire new ideas, and sparks positive change.
The U.S. Department of State launched the FAIT Fellowship in 2017 as part of its commitment to developing a more diverse diplomatic corps that represents the best of the United States around the world.
Based on the fundamental principle that diversity is a strength in our diplomatic efforts, the program values varied backgrounds, including ethnic, racial, gender, and geographic diversity.
“The State Department has the honor of representing the American people to the world. To do that well, we must recruit and retain a workforce that truly reflects America. Diversity and inclusion make us stronger, smarter, more creative, and more innovative.”
Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
Did You Know?
In the U.S. and around the world, the technology field in general lacks diversity and struggles to recruit diverse talent.
68% of U.S.
business leaders report a lack of diversity in their tech workforce.
51% of U.S.
business leaders struggle to recruit diverse entry-level tech talent.
Compared to the tech industry, the FAIT Fellowship program is making significant progress in attracting diverse applicants pursuing technology degrees.
Tech industry data source: EEOC Diversity in High Tech report
“Youth, energy, different perspectives, diversity – all of these are what FAIT Fellows can bring to the table. From the FAIT Fellows that I’ve talked to, trained and actually worked with, I’ve been unbelievably impressed and just thrilled that they’re interested in the Foreign Service as a career”
Jim Hazeltine-Shedd, Foreign Service IMS and enterprise coordinator, Bureau of Information Resources Management, U.S. Dept. of State.
From 2017 to 2021, the FAIT Fellowship has grown in number of applicants and in geographic diversity:
+300%
increase in applications since 2017
193
colleges and universities represented by applicants
23%
are HBCUs, HSIs, MSIs, TCUs or AANAPISIs
