A new study released in February 2026 has found that significant and persistent barriers still hinder diversity hiring for entry-level tech policy jobs, according to a report by Public Knowledge, a nonprofit consumer advocacy group. The research highlights that sustained attention is required to improve diversity metrics in this field.
Key Findings on Diversity Challenges
The report identifies several factors contributing to the lack of diversity in early-career roles:
- Narrow recruitment pools that limit access to diverse candidates.
- Bias from hiring managers affecting selection processes.
- Poor execution on diversity policies within organizations.
These issues have led to a sustained problem in shaping inclusive leadership pipelines in technology policy.
Importance of Early-Career Focus
The study emphasizes that diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts targeted at early-career roles—such as internships, fellowships, entry-level hiring, and first-stage promotion pathways—are foundational. These initiatives are crucial for building long-term leadership in the tech policy field.
Visual Context
Caption: Photo of a job seeker listening to information about employment during a job fair in Dallas, by LM Otero/AP
Call to Action for the Community
The report underscores the need for ongoing commitment from organizations to address these barriers and foster a more inclusive environment in tech policy careers.
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