Two associations representing African-American professionals have formed a partnership to offer membership discounts and training programs for people pursuing science and technology careers.

The National Black MBA Association and National Society of Black Engineers recently announced a three-year partnership that will include discounts on member dues, continuing education and professional development programs, and local chapter engagement opportunities. The ultimate goal for both groups is to help more African-Americans find careers in STEM fields.

"The number of African-Americans graduating with master's degrees in science and technology has increased in recent years, but still pales in comparison to the graduation rates of other ethnicities," said Jesse Tyson, CEO of the National Black MBA Association. "We are optimistic that this partnership will increase S.T.E.M. engagement among African-Americans in graduate programs and will help more students and professionals in science, technology engineering, and math achieve advanced degrees and management careers."

NSBE Executive Director Karl Reid said the current job market has shifted to the point where many of today's executives in science and technology companies need advanced business degrees.

"Our partnership with the National Black MBA Association will reinforce our commitment to developing and grooming our members to be able to compete globally," he said. http://bit.ly/2cQaHzy

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