SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (STEM)

SkillsUSA prepares students for emerging careers in STEM. Students learn to plan, manage, and provide scientific research and professional and technical services (e.g., physical science, social science, engineering) including laboratory and testing services, and research and development services.

STEM Jobs In Reach

Most STEM outreach focuses on research and development, but 50% of available STEM careers will not require a Bachelor’s degree. A significant number of people could pursue STEM careers, but they do not know about the expansive breadth of available STEM jobs.

STEM Job Openings by Entry Education Level

27.4% High School Diploma or Equivalent
11.1% Postsecondary Training (non-degree)
6.6% Associates Degree
47.2% Bachelor’s Degree
2.8% Master’s Degree
3.6% Doctoral or Professional Degree

As many industrial sectors incorporate technology to better compete in a global economy, more and more STEM jobs will become available, and it is imperative people prepare to fill those positions.

STEM workers earn 26% more compared with non-STEM workers with similar levels of education
STEM training provides career flexibility with 24% of engineering majors working in non-STEM occupations including managerial, business, or finance jobs
In particular, the biotechnology market is expected to grow 7.4% every year between 2017 and 2025
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for Industrial Engineers will grow 8% from 2018 to 2028
Civil, Environmental, Petroleum, and Biomedical engineering jobs are expected to grow between 15-25%

FUTURE CAREERS

Air Traffic Controller
Electrical Technician
Medical Laboratory Technician
Nuclear Technician
Operations Technicians / Installer
Radiologic Technologist
Respiratory Therapist

“Science is not a boy’s game, it’s not a girl’s game. It’s everyone’s game. It’s about where we are and where we’re going.”

-Nichelle Nichols

RELATED CONTESTS

Alabama SkillsUSA serves the STEM industry by preparing students with real-world experiences the SkillsUSA Championships. The SkillsUSA Championships are competitive events showcasing the skills of the top students in the state. These Championships allow students to showcase their skills, get feedback from industry leaders, and be rewarded for excellence.