Nationally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that more than 300,000 technology-related jobs remain unfilled for lack of qualified workers. The president understands the critical role science will play in sustaining our nation. Earlier this week, he announced his President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, a group of the nation’s leading scientists and engineers who will advise the administration and help formulate policy.
“Most people think they need to obtain a master’s or a Ph.D, but STEM learning provides the foundation for most career paths, including advanced manufacturing jobs–people who will fix your car,†says Mel Schiavelli, president of the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in Pennsylvania, a private science-and-technology focused University.
“We see the tide changing, and people are beginning to understand why they need know algebra, regardless of what job they want. When I was a kid, science and math were good things to study, but all of sudden, when my kids grew up, it wasn’t cool for girls to be good at math. And that is doubly problematic for African American and Latinos.â€
To make STEM subjects relevant to underserved communities, Microsoft partnered with the School District of Philadelphia two years ago to open the School of the Future, an innovative, technology-rich high school with digital lockers and an interactive learning center and library, in the working-class neighborhood of West Philly.
Like Google, the company also hosts a program that works to dispel gender stereotypes in the high-tech industry. During its DigiGirlz Day, female students are pared with women executives at the company who introduce them to engineering and technology.
“Technology has to be a right, not a privilege, and we’re preparing students with 21st century skills.†said Anthony Salcito, general manager of U.S. education on behalf of Microsoft. “We want to ignite careers. We want to inspire students to impact the world. Innovation drives the course of our economy, and we believe the hope for America lies in the work of these students.â€
Resources
Women in Engineering
The largest international professional organization dedicated to promoting women engineers and scientists.
Coalition for Science After School
National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering