STEM programs immerse students in an environment centered on innovation and creative thinking. Teaching children about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math at an early age can have immense positive impacts on them in later life. These disciplines teach children key life skills such as the ability to remain organized and focused, critical thinking skills, forming opinions based on observation and fact, and the development of senses and environmental awareness. STEM empowers children to be better learners and eventually doers and leads to innovation necessary to sustain our economy. STEM graduates and workers play a key role in our economy’s sustained growth and stability and are essential for winning the future.

In an increasingly complex, changing, technological world, STEM affords learners the skills necessary to succeed. STEM occupations are the fastest-growing occupational sector. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that STEM jobs will grow over 8% by 2029, with computing and engineering leading the way, with jobs in Software Development alone projected to grow more than 20%. In addition to increased demand in STEM fields, almost all of today’s careers require STEM skills. As technology advances, things continue to move to the cloud, and automation becomes more and more common, we continue to see an increased need for STEM knowledge in all sectors of our economy, from the service industry to hospitality and even the utilities where you receive your water, gas, and electric service. Young adults entering the workforce that do not possess science, math, and technology skills are at a severe disadvantage because STEM skills are vital for success in every industry sector.