According to the U.S. Department of Education, only 16 percent of American high school seniors are proficient in mathematics and interested in pursuing a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) career.
This amazing graphic from the U.S. Department of Education shows the projected percentage increase in STEM jobs from 2010 to 2020.
And, shockingly, the website states the “United States is falling behind internationally, ranking 25th in mathematics and 17th in science among industrialized nations.”
STEM education must be a priority. The U.S. government knows it and the associations who support the government are taking note.
For instance, AFCEA has partnered with ShopForStem.org to raise funds that support STEM scholarships, as well as teacher grants. Today, the foundation in conjunction with more than 130 AFCEA chapters worldwide provides more than $2 million in scholarships per year.
When shoppers sign up and purchase products through the site, they get a discount and AFCEA’s Educational Foundation receives a donation from the participating business or store. Combined, the donations can provide students who are engaged in STEM disciplines with educational incentives, opportunities and assistance.
All of us benefit from having our country’s current and future job force be STEM ready. The question comes down to what is our role in helping make this happen. ShopForStem.org could be a first step for many.
Please share with us your thoughts on the importance of STEM education and what you can do about it. This issue is not going away.