Global Perspectives on Barriers and Enablers to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) in the Field of Earth Observation

Abstract The experiences of Earth observation (EO) professionals from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds are under‐documented, which this study seeks to rectify. We interviewed 55 individuals from various organizations supporting underrepresented EO professionals and coded their responses for prevalent themes using standard qualitative methods. We aimed to understand the experiences and challenges for underrepresented professionals in EO, particularly related to their multiple and intersecting identities, and supportive factors that enable individuals to begin, maintain, and advance their careers despite the challenges. Most notably, citizens of non‐Western countries and immigrants in the West encounter significant disadvantages in EO. Participants from low‐income, working‐class, immigrant families, and first‐generation college students cited economic hardship and disparities in access to resources, quality education, and appropriate technology for developing and advancing their expertise in EO. These and other factors, compounded by stereotyping and bigotry, can lead to denied opportunities and stagnated careers. The culmination of these events makes it difficult, if not impossible, to attain the high‐level positions coveted in the field. Despite the complex barriers underrepresented individuals experience in life and in the field of EO, they persist using a variety of strategies. Fueled by their desire for a more diverse and inclusive field and passion for EO, underrepresented individuals found their main drivers for success in personal resilience, perseverance against hardships, self‐confidence, and lessons from lived experiences. Findings from this research can help create action plans, toolkits, and policies to make EO more inclusive for future generations across every career stage and sector.