Dr. Major Interview with Wallet-Hub
"The Best and Worst Metro Areas for STEM Professionals"
According to recent census figures, the majority of STEM grads do not ultimately work in a STEM occupation. Why is that the case?
This is true for at least a couple of reasons. One is that there are more job opportunities in some areas of STEM than in others, so not all STEM grads have equal opportunity to secure a position in their major area. Another reason is that all sorts of employers find STEM graduates attractive job candidates. Completing a STEM degree is challenging! People who do it not only have desirable knowledge and skills acquired through their majors, but they also tend to have personal characteristics (e.g., motivation, perseverance, strong work ethic) that are broadly attractive to employers.
How can the U.S. stay ahead of other countries in attracting and retaining the best STEM professionals?
To attract and retain the best STEM professionals, the U.S. must be a place where science is understood and respected. A basic science education for everyone has to be the norm, so that we all understand and appreciate the scientific process. The U.S. must also continue to emphasize its strong values for creativity and innovation.
How can government, employers, and educators increase the number of women and minorities in STEM fields?
Increasing women and minorities in STEM starts with education. K-12 education must offer inclusive opportunities to explore and develop STEM interests, exposure to diverse role models from STEM fields, and emphasis on building foundational skills (e.g., mathematics). At the college level, women and minorities need equal access to the types of experiences that ultimately embed them in STEM, such as meaningful "hands on" research and practical experiences, mentoring from STEM faculty and professionals, and active participation in STEM communities and professional societies. Employers should be partners invested in all of these educational activities. Providing support and resources for these types of training experiences at all educational levels will ultimately improve the diversity of their applicant pools.
Given that the pandemic has disrupted the normal course of those pursuing a STEM major or career - in terms of canceled internships, the inability to go to class or labs etc. - what can be done to help STEM education thrive until the situation permits a return to face-to-face experiences?
Solutions vary by STEM discipline, but the creative use of technology offers potential answers. In many STEM fields, professionals are currently working remotely. Coming up with creative solutions that use technology to incorporate remote internships is a better choice than canceling them altogether. This generation of college students has used technology to socialize and learn their whole lives. They may be especially well-equipped to intern remotely.