As a group, STEM-S workers earned about 70 percent more than the national average in 2005, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Every major group of STEM-S occupations enjoys overall median earnings that are
As a group, STEM-S workers earned about 70 percent more than the national average in 2005, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Every major group of STEM-S occupations enjoys overall median earnings that are above the national average. Higher than average earnings are often an indicator of strong demand for workers.
Growing demand for technological and environmental advances means more jobs for STEM-S workers.
Between 2004 and 2014, employers are expected to hire about 2.5 million STEM-S workers who are entering their occupation for the first time.
Link to STEM-S and Workforce Development Legislation: http://www.convergemag.com/workforce/STEM-and-Workforce-Development-Legislation.html
There is no shortage of jobs in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (aka, STEM-S). In fact, while overall U.S. unemployment is rising, STEM-S industries are looking for qualified applicants.
A 2008 study concluded that lack of U.S. students with strong skills in STEM-S subjects -- added to a retiring workforce -- could equal a catastrophic shortage of skilled workers.
*Science: In general, the science field will see increased job growth over the next several years. While job opportunity varies by specialty, job opportunities are expected to be best for graduates of applied science technology programs who are well trained on equipment used in laboratories or production facilities. As the instrumentation and techniques used in industrial research, development and production become increasingly more complex, employers will also seek individuals with highly developed technical skills.
*Technology: The increasing use of technology in the workplace is projected to lead to faster than average growth in this occupation. Due to employment increases and because of the high demand for technical workers, prospects should be excellent for qualified job candidates in the information technology field.
*Engineering: Overall employment of engineering technicians is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations, but projected growth and job prospects vary by specialty. Overall employment of engineering technicians is expected to grow seven percent between 2006 and 2016 and opportunities will be best for individuals with an associate degree or extensive job training in engineering technology.
*Math: Employment of mathematicians is expected to increase by 10 percent over the next decade. Individuals with a strong background in mathematics and a related discipline, such as engineering or computer science, and who apply mathematical theory to real-world problems will have the best job prospects in related occupations.
*Sustainability: As the nation turns its attention to more “green” practices, a need for individuals with sustainability technologies experience is expected to grow. These professionals will be expected to assist with such sustainable initiatives as population growth and its impact on the environment and water supply, complex environmental laws and regulations and much more.
* Projections taken from the U.S. Bureau of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook