STEM Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary
With the rise of technology and science, it’s no surprise that STEM-related careers are quickly becoming some of the most sought-after roles in today’s job market. Not only are these positions highly coveted, but they also promise to be among the fastest-growing U.S. professions. These jobs provide excellent opportunities for ambitious professionals looking to join a cutting-edge industry with incredible potential.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in STEM fields is projected to grow by nearly 10% between 2019 and 2029 (BLS. 2021). That’s twice the rate of growth for all other occupations. As society becomes increasingly reliant on technology, there is a growing need for qualified professionals who can work in fields such as engineering, computer science, and healthcare. A STEM degree can open up a world of opportunities, but it’s important to understand that not all STEM careers are created equal.
In a STEM curriculum, students learn to apply scientific and mathematical concepts to solve problems in technology and engineering. They also learn to use technology to design and build systems, and to communicate their ideas effectively.
Interestingly, recent research by the Institution of Engineers and Technologists (2020) found that the COVID-19 response from healthcare workers and engineers prompted 63% of 10- to 18-year-olds to consider a career in medicine and 52% of children to consider a career in engineering. From vaccine development to monitoring community transmissions, the pandemic illuminated the different science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers and the crucial role they play in our everyday lives.
In this guide, we will explore what is a STEM career. The article also focuses on the different types of STEM related careers, the skills you need to succeed in a STEM field, and the job outlook for various STEM occupations. Moreover, this guide applies to different types of college degrees you are planning to get into whether you’re just starting your college search or you’re already planning your post-graduation career. You’ll find below all the information you need to make an informed decision about your future in STEM.
Popular STEM Online Degree Programs for 2025
There are STEM programs that attract many online students since the lessons and exercises are identical to their on-ground counterparts. These degrees lead to high-paying careers with favorable job outlooks. The most popular online STEM programs include the following:
Computer Science
A computer science degree cultivates a strong foundation in computer systems, software engineering, and data analysis. Through coursework in programming languages, algorithms, and data structures, graduates gain the ability to design and implement solutions for complex computational challenges. This positions them for success in diverse fields like software development, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Software Engineering
A software engineering degree builds upon a computer science foundation by emphasizing the application of engineering principles to software development. The curriculum delves into software design patterns, software development methodologies, and software testing frameworks. This equips learners to create robust, maintainable, and scalable software solutions.
Cybersecurity
A cybersecurity degree delves into the technical and theoretical aspects of protecting information systems and networks. Students gain expertise in cryptography, vulnerability assessment, intrusion detection, and secure software development practices. This prepares graduates to analyze cyber threats, design defensive strategies, and safeguard sensitive data within the ever-evolving digital landscape.
STEM Careers Table of Contents
- Why pursue a career in STEM?
- STEM Career Outlook
- Required Skills for STEM Professionals
- How to Start Your Career in STEM
- Can seniors excel in STEM careers with online education?
- How can I stay ahead with continuous learning in STEM?
- How can I advance my career in STEM?
- Common Misconceptions About STEM Careers
- What innovative niche online programs can drive STEM career growth?
- How Can AI Drive Innovation in STEM Careers?
- Can an Advanced Online Degree Drive My STEM Career Forward?
- Alternative Career Options for STEM Professionals
- What factors should I consider when choosing an accelerated online STEM program?
- How can I manage the cost of STEM training and certifications?
- How can I build a robust network and gain hands-on experience in STEM?
Why pursue a career in STEM?
STEM supports 67% of U.S. jobs, 69% of the country’s GDP, and generates $2.3 trillion in annual federal tax revenue (AAAS, 2020). STEM majors’ solid foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics gives them the unique opportunity of pursuing multiple career paths. The objective behind the integration of STEM disciplines is to train students to be capable of transferring learning from one discrete field to another and in doing so, solve the problem at hand.
STEM professionals apply their knowledge in solving real-world problems as they are trained to use the principles of math and science in formulating solutions. As technological innovations become increasingly important in the 21st century, STEM professionals are positioned to take on leadership roles in major technological transitions in the coming decades.
A 2017 study by the BLS reported that 93 out of 100 STEM occupations had wages above the national average, with petroleum engineers, architectural engineers, computer engineers, and physicists on top of the list as the highest wage earners. Also, the average entry-level STEM salary outpaces other fields.
Specializations in STEM are continually evolving with new discoveries in the life and physical sciences, and also with the latest technological developments. This makes the field of STEM a consistently growing field that will create more jobs in the coming decades.
STEM Career Outlook
Since the turn of the century, the U.S. economy has seen a significant increase in the prevalence of STEM employment. STEM courses and jobs are important to the economy because of the latter’s significantly higher wages, which contribute to the overall economy. The median salary for STEM occupations was $98,340 in 2020, with computer and information systems managers earning an average of $161,70 per year (Duffin,2021).
The U.S. economy lost over 20 million jobs at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but STEM jobs had lower rates of unemployment. Typically, over 70% of careers in STEM require a bachelor’s degree, and these jobs have fared better than others (Pischke and Guerdan, 2020). Most STEM related jobs are also better equipped to transition toward remote working environments.
The manufacturing industry market, where most engineers are employed, is projected to grow by 10.8% in 2021 (IBISWorld, 2021). The chemical industry will also be on the rebound, which is expected to expand by 0.5% in 2021 and 3.4% in 2022 (ACC, 2021). While it has experienced the worst drop in earnings at 68% in 2020, the aerospace and defense industry is preparing for an upturn with an expected 11% growth in 2021.
While the pandemic has affected almost every industry, STEM-fueled industries are quick to recover because of their indispensable role in various industries and markets. The information technology industry is on pace to become a five trillion market in 2021 with a projected compound annual growth rate of 5% through 2024 (CompTIA, 2021).
And if you are highly analytical and enjoy solving logical problems with math or science, a STEM program can be one of the easy degrees that pay well.
Required Skills for STEM Professionals
STEM professionals find solutions to problems by applying their core knowledge of mathematics and science. They practice disciplined inquiry and follow a process when formulating solutions. In the course of solving a problem, STEM professionals find the most efficient way to use technology. They inquire, they compute, they apply scientific principles to ensure the delivery of equitable solutions. STEM skills are guiding, enabling, and facilitating skills, a combination of hard and soft skills that do not exist in isolation.
Essential Skills for STEM Professionals
Inquiry-Based Problem Solving
STEM professionals are disciplined in their inquiry, and questions are always anchored on mathematical and scientific principles. Their solid background in STEM disciplines enables them to critically and creatively approach problems and to find solutions that are technologically sound.
Analytical Reasoning
Given a set of information, STEM professionals are trained to discern and identify patterns, be it quantitative or qualitative data. In looking for patterns STEM professionals are able to establish relationships and generate input to the ongoing inquiry.
Scientific Computing
The STEM professional has a set of tools, techniques, and theories that are used to generate mathematical models to solve problems in science and engineering. STEM professionals know how to do simulations using numbers.
General Skills
Communication
Communication is a crucial skill in collaboration. To be able to convey ideas clearly, STEM professionals should be proficient in both verbal and written communication. Part of a STEM career is doing presentations to both large and small audiences, thus, the STEM professional should be confident in presenting concepts and ideas, and in answering inquiries scientifically. In this regard, having an undergraduate or an online bachelor’s degree in communication is an advantage.
Proactive
The STEM professional is proactive in offering solutions to problems. In dealing with difficult situations, the STEM professional knows how to dissect a situation and address each factor that contributes to the problem. This proactive approach enables the STEM professional to think of innovative solutions.
Leadership
Trained to conduct disciplined research, the STEM professional should be able to lead a team. STEM-related projects require significant motivation and the STEM professional as a group leader should be able to motivate the team.
How to Start Your Career in STEM
One-third of U.S. workers are direct STEM professionals, of which 59% do not hold a bachelor’s degree (AAAS, 2020). These STEM workers are either associate degree holders or have earned technical certificates. Associate programs lead to assistant or technician positions. The two-year associate degree can be a ticket to engineering roles, such as industrial engineering technician or surveyor and mapping technician.
Compared to the associate track, the four-year bachelor’s degree offers a higher level of specialization. Biomedical engineers, actuaries, and food scientists are typical jobs for STEM students who have bachelor’s degrees. A bachelor’s degree is also required to pursue graduate studies.
As such, our team of experts has compiled a STEM jobs list for undergraduate degree holders.
What can I do with an Associate’s Degree in STEM?
An associate degree grants one a wide range of STEM course jobs. Professionals have the option to gain experience in their fields before pursuing further education or scaling the corporate ladder.
Heavy Equipment Technician
The heavy equipment technician is also known as the mechanic that performs regular inspection, maintenance, and repair of vehicles and machinery used in transportation, farming, construction, and other industries.
Median salary: $52,447
Tool and Die Makers
The tool and die maker is tasked to prepare and operate different mechanically-controlled and computer-controlled machine tools with the objective of producing instruments, metal parts, and tools that meet the specifications provided.
Median salary: $55,621
Computer Support Technician
The computer support technician assists organizations in their utilization of computers in operations. Providing technical assistance is the main role of the computer support technician.
Median salary: $44,560
Airplane Assemblers
The airplane assembler is a specialized metal worker that knows the different types of alloys used in aircraft assembly. Aside from working with sub-assemblies and smaller components, the aircraft assembler is also involved in the construction of exterior parts of the aircraft.
Median salary: $44,797
What can I do with a Bachelor’s Degree in STEM?
The broad knowledge imparted by bachelor’s programs leads to a diverse range of STEM career pathways. Many of the opportunities have high growth potential and can eventually lead to leadership roles.
Zoologists
Zoologists study the characteristics of animals and the impact that humans have on wildlife and natural habitats. While the Zoologist studies animals both in the lab or in their natural habitat, the Wildlife biologist works only with the animal’s natural habitat.
Median salary: $57,776
Logistician
The logistician is responsible for the management of the organization’s supply chain. The main task of the logistician is to manage the life cycle of a product, from the acquisition of materials to allocation, up to the process of delivery.
Median salary: $48,714
Information Security Analyst
As the number of cyberattacks continues to rise each day, the Information security analyst is employed by organizations to plan and carry out security measures to protect internal as well as external networks.
Median salary: $75,123
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
The aircraft maintenance engineer assists in the repair, maintenance, rebuilding, and servicing of aircraft. Aircraft maintenance engineers are also involved in overhaul works and replacements.
Median salary: $71,588

Can you get a STEM job with just a certificate?
While there is a general perception that most STEM workers are college graduates, Pew Research found that the number of STEM workers without a bachelor’s degree is higher than those with a graduate degree (Fry et al., 2021). Most entry-level roles in STEM-related industries such as technicians, assemblers, technical support, and web developers require certificates that are focused on a particular job. These career-oriented programs provide essential training to students as well as immediate employment. Most employers in different industries employ graduates of certificate programs because they are assured that the candidates have had adequate training in relation to the job.
Can seniors excel in STEM careers with online education?
For mature professionals and returning students, online education offers a flexible route to update and diversify STEM skills while balancing ongoing career responsibilities. Customized digital programs enable learners to build on prior experience and stay current with emerging technologies. For example, online college courses for seniors provide tailored curricula that integrate real-world applications and modern technical competencies, ensuring that skills remain relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.
How can I stay ahead with continuous learning in STEM?
To maintain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving industry, it is essential to build a resilient learning strategy that goes beyond formal degrees. Embrace a balanced mix of professional development opportunities including specialized workshops, industry webinars, and targeted certifications focused on emerging technologies. Implementing such a strategy allows you to master new tools, methodologies, and software innovations crucial for career advancement. Additionally, consider enrolling in online college courses for seniors to gain flexible, up-to-date training that complements real-world experience without disrupting existing professional commitments.
How can I advance my career in STEM?
Postgraduate programs in STEM require a bachelor’s degree. Some roles in STEM, such as physicists, astronomers, epidemiologists, and neuroscientists require a doctoral degree or Ph.D. Some STEM professions, such as those in the information technology industry, typically do not require graduate studies for career advancement.
Professional doctorate programs in STEM are field-specific, and almost all STEM Ph.D.s are awarded in health-related fields, such as doctor of medicine (MD), doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO), doctor of dental surgery (DDS) and doctor of physical therapy (DPT). Holders of graduate degrees have access to some of the highest paying STEM jobs available.
Listed further below is a STEM careers list for professionals with master’s and doctorate degrees.

What can I do with a Master’s in STEM?
Graduates who hold master’s degrees have access to some of the best STEM careers, as they have completed a series of advanced courses and worked with the supervision of seasoned industry professionals. Their efforts are rewarded with access to an impressive STEM jobs salary.
Computer and Information Research Scientist
The computer and information research scientist uses new and existing technology in formulating solutions for complex problems in computing as applied in medicine, science, business, and other fields.
Median salary: $76,866
Statistician
The statistician identifies the specific set of data required for a set of questions or problems, and designs experiments, surveys, or opinion polls to collect data. The statistician also works with the mathematician in applying mathematical theories and techniques to solve practical problems in the sciences, engineering, business, and other fields.
Median salary: $82,403
Analytics Manager
The analytics manager leads the formulation of strategies for the effective collection and analysis of data and the application of analytics in the context of different industries. The analytics manager communicates insights to executives, who make data-driven decisions for the organization.
Median salary: $102,104
Software Engineering Manager
The software engineering manager leads a team of software engineers in developing new software and providing updates and maintenance on software products.
Median salary: $146,206
What kind of job can I get with a Doctorate in STEM?
Some of the best STEM jobs are available to those with doctorate degrees. After all, they have gained mastery of different aspects of the disciplines involved.
Scientific Research Engineering Manager
The scientific research engineering manager leads research and development projects to come up with new products, processes, and designs. This role also checks the technical accuracy of all product and design specifications.
Median salary: $130,686
Physicists
The physicist is often involved in industries that design and develop materials and equipment. As the expert in fundamental properties and laws that govern space, time, energy, and matter, the physicist may perform experiments in determining the appropriateness of materials to be used in products.
Median salary: $100,462
Astronomers
The astronomer plays a significant role in scientific and technological development. In using ground- and space-based equipment, astronomers facilitate the placement and monitor the operations of satellites for communication and for the global positioning system. Astronomers also study planets, stars, distant galaxies, other celestial bodies, black holes, and neuron stars.
Median salary: $91,557
Cloud Solutions Architect
The cloud solutions architect is responsible for the overall development and design of cloud-based platforms. In organizations, the cloud solutions architect implements and oversees cloud computing strategy.
Median salary: $118,193
Which certification is best for STEM?
Certificate programs require applicants to hold a minimum of bachelor’s degree, but graduate students and mid-career professionals that hold a master’s or doctorate degree may also apply. Certificate programs intend to provide depth and breadth in content knowledge and update practitioners with the most current research and practices in the specific STEM area. Having a certification validates one’s skill set and demonstrates professional development. The list below details some of the certificate programs in select STEM areas.
- Graduate Certificate in Computational Intelligence
- Graduate Certificate in Life Sciences Management
- Graduate Certificate in Computational Discovery and Engineering
- Graduate Certificate in Biomanufacturing
- Advance Mathematics Graduate Certificate
- Mathematical Foundation of Cryptography Certificate
Upskilling and reskilling are crucial for the STEM professional. A study by Deming and Noray (2020) entitled “Earning Dynamics, Changing Job Skills, and STEM Careers," found that STEM careers have the highest rates of task change or one of the highest-changing professional occupations due to the rise and decline of specific technologies. Among the professions, STEM-related job skill requirements changed significantly from 2009-2019. According to the authors, “Applied majors such as computer science, engineering, and business teach vintage-specific skills that become less valuable as new skills are introduced to the workplace over time." Published by the Quarterly Journal of Economics, this study also explains the ‘STEM shortage’ phenomenon as directly related to technological change.

Common Misconceptions About STEM Careers
Despite the growing popularity of STEM careers, there are still several misconceptions that deter individuals from pursuing them. Here are some of the most common misconceptions:
- STEM careers are only for math and science geniuses. Many believe that only people with extraordinary math or science skills can excel in STEM fields. In reality, STEM careers value creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking as much as technical expertise.
- STEM jobs are boring or solitary. STEM roles are often seen as monotonous or isolated. However, many STEM careers involve collaboration, innovation, and the opportunity to work on exciting real-world challenges, from environmental conservation to cutting-edge technology development.
- STEM fields are not for women or minorities. Another misconception is that STEM fields are male-dominated and not inclusive of women or minority groups. This has been changing, with increasing diversity efforts and initiatives aimed at encouraging underrepresented groups to enter and thrive in STEM industries.
- STEM careers only exist in laboratories or tech companies. While labs and tech firms are common STEM environments, STEM professionals work in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, education, entertainment, and more.
What innovative niche online programs can drive STEM career growth?
Niche online programs offer targeted curricula that equip STEM professionals with in-demand, specialized skills to navigate evolving technological landscapes. These programs focus on integrating cutting-edge theory with practical applications, enabling learners to quickly fill skill gaps and advance their careers. For instance, an online game development degree program provides specific expertise in digital design and technical innovation, positioning graduates to excel in a rapidly growing segment of the tech industry.
How Can AI Drive Innovation in STEM Careers?
As artificial intelligence transforms traditional workflows, STEM professionals are leveraging AI-driven methodologies to streamline complex processes and uncover actionable insights. Integrating advanced AI tools not only accelerates research and development but also fosters innovation in product design and operational optimization. Gaining hands-on experience with emerging AI applications and enrolling in targeted training programs—such as the best online AI degree programs—can provide a decisive competitive advantage in the evolving STEM landscape.
Can an Advanced Online Degree Drive My STEM Career Forward?
Advanced online degree programs equip STEM professionals with specialized skills that address emerging industry challenges. These programs offer rigorous curricula focused on the latest technologies and research methodologies, enabling graduates to tackle niche technical problems that standard degrees may not cover. The flexibility of online learning can provide access to expertise in high-demand fields, helping professionals to scale their technical proficiency and improve career prospects. For instance, pursuing an affordable online masters in bioinformatics program can foster expertise in a rapidly evolving discipline while aligning academic efforts with market needs.
Alternative Career Options for STEM Professionals
With their scientific and mathematical skills, STEM professionals have a wide range of options career-wise. Almost every industry needs the skills of a STEM professional, and different job options are available across industries.
What else can a STEM Professional Do?
Biotech Sales Representative since Biotechnology is employed in different industries, companies that offer these services need sales representatives. STEM majors may work as biotech sales representatives as this is a highly technical field that requires someone with STEM education. Some salespeople in biotech even have Ph.D.s, making it one of the most common alternative careers for scientists.
Sound Engineer for STEM majors that are into music production, the role of a sound engineer is a ticket to the film or music industry. Sound engineers may work in a range of industries, such as live performance, film, television, advertising, and other projects that require audio recordings.
Science Journalist STEM majors with strong writing skills may opt to take on the role of science journalist for specialized publications that focus on the different STEM disciplines. The Science journalist may also work for newspapers, magazines, and websites as a freelancer or staff writer.
Medical Illustrator this role requires a solid understanding of life sciences and it uses both science and art to produce photographs, videos, and images for use in promoting scientific knowledge to the public. The medical illustrator simplifies complex information while at the same time ensuring its accuracy.
What factors should I consider when choosing an accelerated online STEM program?
When evaluating accelerated online STEM programs, it is essential to assess the institution’s accreditation and how its curriculum aligns with current industry standards. Look for programs that offer practical, hands-on training delivered by experienced instructors and modern digital tools. Verify that the course structure supports flexibility and rapid skill acquisition while maintaining rigorous academic quality. For instance, pursuing a degree in computer science online can provide both the technical depth and practical learning environment necessary for swift career advancement in a competitive STEM landscape. Additional considerations include the program’s reputation, student support services, and how well its learning outcomes meet emerging sector requirements.
How can I manage the cost of STEM training and certifications?
When planning for a STEM career, understanding the financial commitment involved is essential. Many professionals explore a mix of traditional degrees and certificate programs to build expertise without incurring prohibitive costs. Evaluating the return on investment across various educational pathways—including short-term, skill-specific certifications—can help balance upfront expenses with long-term career benefits. For instance, cost-effective programs in allied health often provide practical skills and a fast track to employment opportunities. Detailed comparisons of tuition and associated fees are available; reviewing resources such as the medical assistant certification online cost can offer insights into affordable alternatives for certification programs. Additionally, pursuing scholarships, flexible learning options, and employer-sponsored education benefits may further mitigate financial burdens while supporting continuous skill enhancement.
How can I build a robust network and gain hands-on experience in STEM?
Leveraging industry partnerships and practical opportunities is essential for advancing in STEM. Focus on securing internships, participating in mentorship programs, and attending sector-specific conferences to acquire real-world insights. Collaborating with professionals on live projects enhances technical skills and builds a credible portfolio. Additionally, engaging with industry-focused networking platforms and expert forums can connect you with emerging trends and leaders in your field. For instance, individuals exploring laboratory-based innovation might consider a biotechnology career to complement academic achievements with practical expertise.
The Career Path that Adapts to the Knowledge Economy
It has been emphasized time and again that STEM is a key contributor to national competitiveness and economic progress. For this reason, STEM careers are valued, as reflected in the median salary of STEM-related jobs. While STEM jobs permeate almost every industry, the challenge for STEM professionals, especially for those who are in the field of applied STEM, such as engineering and computer science, is that job skill requirements change fast, thus the need to pursue continuous professional development.
But the combination of soft and hard skills that every STEM professional possesses will never change. As an ever-evolving field, jobs in various sectors of STEM will continue to be invented and reinvented, and the same goes for the STEM professional. Consider one of the STEM career paths today and evolve with this growing field.
Key Insights
- Rapid Growth in STEM Careers: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a nearly 10% growth in STEM jobs from 2019 to 2029, double the rate of all other occupations. This highlights the increasing demand for professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
- High Earning Potential: STEM occupations generally offer higher wages compared to non-STEM jobs. For example, the median salary for STEM roles was $98,340 in 2020, with some positions like computer and information systems managers earning an average of $161,710 per year.
- Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has highlighted the critical role of STEM professionals, especially in healthcare and engineering, prompting more young people to consider careers in these fields. STEM jobs also showed resilience during the economic downturn caused by COVID-19.
- Essential Skills for Success: STEM professionals require a combination of hard and soft skills, including inquiry-based problem solving, analytical reasoning, scientific computing, communication, proactivity, and leadership. These skills enable them to tackle complex problems and lead innovative projects.
- Educational Pathways: While many STEM careers require at least a bachelor's degree, a significant number of roles can be accessed with an associate degree or technical certificates. Higher degrees like master's and doctorates open up more advanced and specialized opportunities.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: STEM graduates have a wide range of career options across various industries, from traditional roles in engineering and IT to alternative paths like biotech sales, sound engineering, science journalism, and medical illustration.
FAQ
- What is the projected growth rate for STEM jobs? The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a nearly 10% growth in STEM jobs from 2019 to 2029, which is double the rate for all other occupations.
- What is the median salary for STEM occupations? The median salary for STEM occupations was $98,340 in 2020. Some roles, such as computer and information systems managers, can earn significantly higher, averaging $161,710 per year.
- How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect STEM careers? STEM careers showed resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic with lower rates of unemployment compared to other sectors. The pandemic also highlighted the importance of healthcare and engineering roles, inspiring more young people to pursue careers in these fields.
- What skills are essential for STEM professionals? STEM professionals need a combination of hard and soft skills, including inquiry-based problem solving, analytical reasoning, scientific computing, effective communication, proactivity, and leadership.
- What educational qualifications are needed for STEM careers? While many STEM careers require at least a bachelor's degree, a significant number of roles can be accessed with an associate degree or technical certificates. Advanced degrees such as master's and doctorates are necessary for more specialized and higher-paying positions.
- Can you get a STEM job with just a certificate? Yes, many entry-level STEM roles, such as technicians, assemblers, and web developers, require certificates focused on specific job skills. These career-oriented programs provide essential training and immediate employment opportunities.
- How can I advance my career in STEM? Advancing a career in STEM typically involves pursuing higher education such as a master's or doctoral degree. Continuous professional development and obtaining specialized certifications also play a crucial role in career advancement.
- What are some alternative career options for STEM professionals? STEM professionals can explore alternative career paths such as biotech sales, sound engineering, science journalism, and medical illustration, leveraging their scientific and mathematical skills in diverse industries.
- What impact does STEM have on the economy? STEM supports 67% of U.S. jobs, 69% of the country's GDP, and generates $2.3 trillion in annual federal tax revenue. The high wages in STEM occupations contribute significantly to the overall economy.
- Why should one pursue a career in STEM? Pursuing a career in STEM offers numerous benefits, including high earning potential, job security, diverse career opportunities, and the chance to work on cutting-edge innovations that solve real-world problems.
References:
- American Association for the Advancement of Science (2020), STEM and the American Workforce, https://www.fticonsulting.com/insights/reports/stem-american-workforce
- American Chemical Council (2021), Mid-Year Outlook: U.S. Chemical Industry Rebounds as Global Recovery Continues, https://www.americanchemistry.com/chemistry-in-america/news-trends/press-release/2021/mid-year-outlook-u.s.-chemical-industry-rebounds-as-global-recovery-continues
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021), Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
- Computing Technology Industry Association (2020), IT Industry Outlook 2020, https://www.comptia.org/content/research/it-industry-outlook-2020
- Deming, D.J. and Noray, K.L. (2020), Earnings Dynamics, Changing Job Skills, and STEM Careers, The Quarterly Journal of Economics, https://doi.org/10.1093/qje/qjaa021
- Duffin, E. (2021), Highest paying STEM occupations by occupational field U.S. 2020, https://www.statista.com/statistics/829163/employment-figures-for-stem-occupations-in-the-us-by-occupation/
- Fry, R., Kennedy, B. and Funk, C. (2021), STEM Jobs See Uneven Progress in Increasing Gender, Racial and Ethnic Diversity, https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2021/04/01/stem-jobs-see-uneven-progress-in-increasing-gender-racial-and-ethnic-diversity/
- IBISWorld (2021), Manufacturing in the US Market Size 20052027, https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/manufacturing-united-states/
- The Institution of Engineering and Technology (2020), How COVID-19 is making STEM cool for careers, https://www.theiet.org/media/press-releases/press-releases-2020/press-releases-2020-july-september/29-july-2020-how-covid-19-is-making-stem-cool-for-careers/
