Parents and caregivers are key partners for teachers and schools to engage in the development and expansion of STEM learning and access. STEM careers in the United States are growing twice as fast as other fields but economic projections predict that there could be as many as 2.4 million unfilled STEM jobs by 2018. To meet the rapidly-growing demand for qualified STEM professionals and develop the next generation of leaders, we must help students build the necessary competencies and skills to pursue STEM degrees and career opportunities.
Most people think of civil engineers, doctors, accountants or scientists when they think of STEM careers—all professions that require at least a four-year degree. But there are a vast array of other careers in STEM, and approximately half of those STEM jobs only require a two-year degree.