National society of black engineers as an ecotone in the engineering education ecosystem that promotes leadership development

This analysis focuses on the role of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) within the broader engineering education ecosystem. The study, guided by a learning ecosystems framework, investigates how NSBE acts as a critical connection-building space for Black undergraduate engineering students at predominantly White institutions, facilitating leadership development through interconnected academic, social, and professional contexts. It builds on previous quantitative findings that linked NSBE participation to enhanced student leadership.

Why it matters

Understanding the mechanisms that foster leadership development among underrepresented groups within specialized educational ecosystems is crucial for talent pipeline management and ensuring diverse leadership. Organizations like NSBE play a vital role in building connections and providing support, which can significantly influence the professional trajectory and leadership capacity of future workforces in technical fields.

Key insights

• The engineering education environment is conceptualized as a learning ecosystem.
• NSBE functions as an 'ecotone' or a connection-building space within this ecosystem.
• NSBE specifically serves Black undergraduate engineering students at predominantly White institutions.
• Participation in NSBE is linked to positive relationships with student leadership development.
• The study adopts an ecological lens to understand NSBE's systemic impact on leadership growth.
• The research utilized qualitative survey data to explore these dynamics.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1866994