Careers News

Careers News: STEM, CAREERS, and You!

STEM is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths and has become a very relevant and important area of work and study over the years.  Research shows that 75% of the fastest growing jobs and careers require STEM skills and the demand for STEM jobs is increasing twice as fast as any other area of work.  As we all know, the world of work is changing and evolving very quickly, and STEM plays a significant role in this change and evolution.  Although STEM is a common term in schools and the workplace there are still many myths and questions around what it is and what it means to work in STEM.

As humans, we are connected to the world of STEM in many ways and STEM skills are useful in a variety of different parts of our lives.  Take a cell phone, for example: all the different parts of STEM have to work together in order to ensure a phone can operate properly. 

Science skills would be used to design the battery for your phone to make sure it has enough power to operate.

Technology skills would be used to create code and software to help you search the Internet and use certain apps on your phone.

Engineering skills would help to build the actual device and make sure that the hardware and software can work together.

Maths skills would use maths and algorithms to build graphics and screen displays so you can interact with your phone. 

Debunking some common myths

You have to go University to have a STEM career – False

Over one quarter of individuals working in STEM do not have a University degree.  Studying a VET certificate or doing a course through TAFE can qualify you to work in the STEM industry.  

To work in tech you have to be able to code – False

There are many careers in the Tech industry that don’t involve coding.  Careers in Creative Design, Data Skills and Tech Support are just a few examples of tech titles that don’t require coding skills.

All scientists work in laboratories – False

Although there are many lab-based science careers, scientists also do a lot of field work in many different settings and collaborate with different teams and people. 

Engineers just work with building bridges and structures – False

There are many different kinds of Engineering careers including mechanical, chemical, environmental, software, etc.  Engineers can work in many different fields and settings. 

You have to be good at Science and Maths to have a STEM career – False

Many STEM careers don’t revolve around science and maths; take a pilot, an electrician or a web developer, for example.  In school, science and maths provide good building blocks for developing STEM skills but they are not required for a career in STEM. 

STEM skills and programs open the door to many careers that are engaging and relevant to the world today.  For students interested in building a better future and being part of new projects, initiatives, technologies and ideas a career in STEM might be something to consider. 

Aviva Mulloy 

Careers Advisor