In 2005, when SEM Link was founded there wasn't much talk about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM);nor was there such a focus on math and science education. The focus in education was the basics the three R's- reading, riting (writing) and rithmetic (arithmetic) and test scores. But now the tides have turned and everyone is talking about STEM and math and science education. Although I am not sure why, I have noticed several changes in how STEM and STEM education is viewed and the resources that have been poured into by corporations, government agencies and nonprofits.
As the world economy is becoming more global, the United States is realizing that if we want to remain a global superpower some things have to change. Some of the countries that are emerging as leaders in our global economy have strong math and science education and a strong STEM sector. Therefore part of this buzz about math and science is realizing that the innovation of society is dependent of STEM. If we want to have a strong STEM sector, it starts with the quality of the math and science education we provide to our youth.
Secondly, the leadership of the country changed. Yes, President Obama is a strong supporter of math and science education. He has made one of the focuses of his administration and has made several speeches about its importance. But in the past few years, corporations and government agencies are realizing that the current STEM workforce is preparing to retire soon and there isn't anyone in the pipeline to replace them. Therefore, corporations and government agencies have been pouring resources into K-16 education to ensure there is a future pipeline for the STEM workforce. What they also have realized is that the current STEM workforce isn't a reflection of our diverse society. Therefore there are resources targeted towards encouraging historically underrepresented populations to pursue STEM careers.
Finally, there are efforts to make pursuing STEM careers cool for children. I read a press release today about a campaign to promote Rock Stars of Science. I would have never put rock stars and science together. In addition, many celebrities such as Mos Def and Mary J. Blige have been involved in campaign to encourage youth to pursue STEM careers.
I'm very excited that STEM careers are being pushed because I truly believe if you want to look at the strength of a nation and its economy, you can look at the strength of the STEM sector. I just want to be sure that we do all we can to "unveil potential through exposure" and create the pipeline for the future STEM workforce.
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About SEM Link
- SEM Link
- Science, Engineering and Mathematics Link, Inc. (SEM Link), a tax-exempt nonprofit organization, was founded in 2004 on the premise that exposure to members of the science, engineering and mathematics (SEM) communities is critical to student development in math and science. Our mission is to promote student achievement and career exploration in math and science while increasing student exposure to the science, engineering and mathematics communities and enhancing resources that are available at local schools and community organizations. Our two core programs, Math and Science Career Academy and Experimental Design Program, provide students with an opportunity to develop their math and science skills by enhancing the classroom learning experience and teaching them skills that are transferable to other areas of life. We recruit students and professionals for our programs that have backgrounds in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
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