Not all STEM careers require a college degree; some good careers such as that of a welder or a manufacturing technician need only an industry certification or a two year degree. But the large majority of STEM jobs require some education after high school.
The STEM disciplines are interesting and challenging. They can help prepare you for careers in fields that pay well and are relatively abundant. STEM jobs are increasing at a faster rate than non-STEM jobs for students with post-secondary education. Also, the skills such as critical thinking and problem solving learned while studying STEM subjects are applicable to almost all careers and actually in demand for most.
A partial list of STEM careers includes:
- Medical doctors
- Dentists
- Health Care Professionals
- Engineers
- Scientists
- Agriculture
- Statisticians
- Architects
- Computer Technicians
- Welders
- Machinists
- Manufacturing Technologists
- Electricians
Women in STEM
In particular, women and girls may face a variety of challenges when it comes to feeling successful at and finding a STEM career. This article from American University describes the problem well and provides resources to help girls succeed in STEM. This blogpost also goes into depth with five women who have careers in data science. Ohio University has a site that lists scholarships in data science programs, in addition to other resources: https://onlinemasters.ohio.edu/blog/women-in-data-science/
Here are resources specifically for a woman interested in pursuing a career in computer science: https://www.purdueglobal.edu/blog/information-technology/resources-women-computer-technology/
Another good resource from Maryville University for aspiring women in STEM can be found here: http://online.maryville.edu/blog/women-in-stem-a-guide-to-bridging-the-gender-gap/
STEM career guides
Download the full list of ACT-Defined STEM Majors and Occupations by Area (PDF).
TechnologyEducation.org is an online directory of technology and computer education and careers. Also this site provides a lot of information about tech careers: https://techguide.org/
AgExplorer.com is a new career exploration website that is a comprehensive resource to help students explore the broad range of careers in agriculture.
Also, here are a few links of useful resources on STEM degrees:
– Computer engineering and data science degrees and careers:
http://www.learnhowtobecome.org/computer-engineer/
https://www.discoverdatascience.org/
– Electrical engineering degrees and careers:
http://www.learnhowtobecome.org/electrical-engineer/
– Mechanical engineering degrees and careers:
http://www.learnhowtobecome.org/mechanical-engineer/
– Women and STEM degrees:
https://datascience.berkeley.edu/women-computing-computer-science/
https://www.moneygeek.com/education/college/resources/women-in-stem/
Tips for Getting Girls Involved in STEM
STEM jobs in high demand
Not all STEM jobs are in high demand, but some are struggling to connect with employees.
(Please note that I-STEM does not specifically endorse these resources.)