HFES strongly values its vision of "a future in which the reach, relevance and quality of human factors/ergonomics (HF/E) are greatly expanded by enriching the science and enhancing its impact on solving societal problems," including systemic racism. In support of this vision, we value and celebrate the diversity of students, practitioners, educators, researchers and other individuals who engage in the profession of HF/E and the stakeholders who benefit from their practice.
Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) and belonging is a commitment to recognizing and celebrating the variety of characteristics that make individuals unique. These characteristics encompass a broad range, including, but not limited to: race, ethnicity, age, belief system, cognitive style, culture, (dis)ability status, education, gender, gender identity, gender expression, geographic background, job type (e.g., academic, industry, government/military/aerospace, consulting), language, marital/partnered status, national origin, physical appearance, political affiliation, religious beliefs, sex, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, theoretical perspective and veteran status.
Two Strategic Goals of HFES specifically address our values related to DEI and societal concerns more broadly:
- Increase diversity, equity, and inclusion across the society, including the membership and leadership, and participation in conferences and publications
- Advance the science and practice of HF/E to address current and emerging societal problems
HFES recognizes and celebrates diversity through words and actions…
The HFES Diversity & Inclusion Committee seeks to facilitate the Society's ongoing efforts to foster a culture and atmosphere of mutual respect to attract, retain and promote outstanding, diverse human factors professionals. Activities include managing a seed grant program in support of research and programming at the intersections of HF/E and anti-racism/anti-bias, webinars, conference programming, DEI awards initiatives and outreach to organizations and individuals outside of HFES.
HFES Affinity Groups provide mutual support and a sense of community to further the non-political, affinity-related interests of those engaged in human factors/ergonomics. Activities include monthly meetings, mentorship activities, webinars and conference programming.
Our Listening and Acting Webinar Series was initiated to inform and support dialogue among members on contemporary topics at the intersections of HF/E, race, equity and societal impact.
Statement of Appropriate Conduct - HFES seeks to provide an atmosphere at all events (conferences, webinars, meetings, etc.) in which all participants may learn, network, and enjoy the company of colleagues in an environment of mutual human respect. HFES recognizes a shared responsibility to establish, maintain, and protect such an environment for the benefit of all.
HFES DE&I Committee Seed Grants: Request for Proposals - Seed grants fund the early stages of projects with the potential for broad impact or provide preliminary data for future state, federal, foundation or other grant proposal mechanisms. The long-term goal of this grant program is to identify evidence‐based solutions to the problems of racism and bias.
Conference Design and Programming
Design. HFES strives to create an environment in which all meeting participants are welcome, valued, affirmed, and feel that they belong. Examples of services provided at our conferences include a contemplation/quiet space, gender neutral restrooms, lactation room, on-site assistance (e.g., ASL interpreter services, mobility, note-taking, childcare, ADA needs, etc.) and accessible seating.
Programming. Examples of contemporary DEI-related programming at our 66th International Annual Meeting in 2022 included these sessions:
- Sociotechnical Systems View of Catalysts that Enable Underrepresented Minority Student Success
- Developing the Human Factors/Ergonomics Discipline to Support Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Bring Your Whole Self to Work: Conversations with Affinity Group Leaders
- HF/E and DEI – Crossover Opportunities
Recommended Readings:
- Chiou, E. and Roscoe, R. Assessing Authentic Diversity in the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society: An HFES White Paper (PDF, 685 KB)
- Roscoe, R. D., Chiou, E. K., & Wooldridge, A. R. (Eds.) (2020). Advancing Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice through Human Systems Engineering. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. ISBN 9781138387980.
- Smith-Jackson, T.L., Resnick, M., & Johnson, K. (Eds.). (2013). Cultural Ergonomics: Theory, Methods, & Applications. London & Oxford, UK: CRC Press – Taylor and Francis. ISBN-978-I-4398-I260-0.
Recommended Viewing:
HFES Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Archive