Our nation derives strength from the diversity of its population and from its commitment to equal opportunity for all.

Special Emphasis Programs (SEP) were established in the Federal Government to remove barriers to equal employment opportunities for groups that were traditionally not represented or subjected to discrimination in the workforce. These programs ensure that agencies take affirmative steps to provide equal opportunity to everyone in all areas of employment and eliminate discriminatory practices and policies. Through various initiatives, the programs address the unique concerns of specific groups in achieving diversity, inclusion, and equality of opportunity in recruitment, hiring, development, training, and advancement.

The NWS Diversity Management Council (DMC) was established to assist in creating a culture of belongingness. Led by the DEIA Program, the purpose of the DMC is to be a direct conduit to coordinate diversity and inclusion efforts within the NWS to support the creation of an environment for employees that is safe, inclusive, and conducive to the recognition, development, promotion, understanding, and utilization of all abilities, skills, and knowledge.

The DMC includes representatives from all seven (7) Special Emphasis groups recognized by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Department of Commerce (DOC), and NOAA.

Special Emphasis Programs at the DOC and NOAA are:

• Federal Women's Program
• Hispanic Emphasis Program
• Disability Emphasis Program
• African-American or Black Emphasis Program
• American Indian Alaska Native Emphasis Program
• Asian American Pacific Islander Emphasis Program
• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer or Questioning Emphasis Program

The National Weather Service strives to recruit and hire a diverse and representative workforce reflecting the full spectrum of demographics across the United States. This team has members from across the country and territories and all grade levels who are charged with promoting the NWS and helping with the recruitment and retention efforts of the organization. For additional information and resources on NWS DEIA-focused recruitment efforts, please reach out to the DEIA Recruitment Team at nws.deiarecruitmentteam@noaa.gov.