If a passion for science subjects isn’t enough reason, there are lots of other incentives for picking STEM options at school, college, or uni.
Here’s our top ten list of why we think your child should plump for science or tech and with your input, they might consider STEM as a worthwhile career move:
- STEM jobs don’t always need a degree.
Although some STEM careers need high-level qualifications, many either train on the job or accept young people via more vocational routes. Apprenticeships and hands-on training could be a better option for your child if they prefer more practical learning. Why not suggest they take our careers quiz to figure out what roles suit them best.
- They have the potential to earn more.
A government labour market report in 2023 showed that science, technology, engineering, and maths subjects are generally linked to higher earnings. Non-graduates starting STEM-related jobs are also shown to have above-average salaries. This is great news for young people with student loads starting out on their own.
- They will gain transferrable skills.
Many employers recognise that the skills gained from STEM subjects can be useful in other industries too. Problem-solving, teamwork, organisation, creativity, and analytical abilities grounded in STEM are desirable for many other jobs too, should your child switch sectors.
- There’s a huge range of specialisms in STEM.
The enormous growth in STEM industries means a broader range of vacancies across sectors, from telecommunications and health to construction and the environment. It’s estimated that 60% of all new jobs created are in STEM, and there are also opportunities to move between specialisms. Remember, often these jobs are supporting roles in the STEM industry too, so not just frontline scientists.
- They will be highly employable and have more job security.
Transferrable skills and an explosion of STEM vacancies mean even more exciting opportunities. There is less chance of being unemployed due to the significant demand for skilled professionals… which is reassuring for you as your young person takes their first steps into the world of work.
- There are great opportunities to travel.
A career in STEM can take you around the world to almost any destination. Science and technology are crying out for specialists, with global employment from software engineering in Silicon Valley to nuclear research at CERN in Switzerland. However, if your young person is more of a homebird, there are many remote and flexible working opportunities too.
- They can work at the cutting-edge of STEM.
Science and technology are advancing rapidly with leaps in innovation. From AI software identifying illness markers to space exploration or even sustainable energy development, your child could have the chance to work on some mind-blowing projects.
- They can have rewarding and meaningful careers.
The next generation faces many global challenges, such as food shortages, poor drinking water, cyber security threats, housing shortfalls, spreading diseases, energy shortages, and global warming. A job in STEM could mean solving critical problems for a better tomorrow, giving them the ultimate job satisfaction.
- It’s not just for academics. STEM subjects can be creative and hands-on.
There are lots of jobs that need imaginative thinking or skills that span the arts and sciences. Robotics, geology, aerospace, acoustics, design, animation, and 3D modelling are all examples of areas that might need a mixture of creative, hands-on, and analytical expertise.
- They will always be more to learn.
STEM fields constantly evolve, so lifelong learning is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in new technologies and scientific discoveries. This can be intellectually stimulating and rewarding. Your child will stretch their knowledge, become more rounded experts, or maybe even become a science educator themselves!
Learn more about the enormous range of science careers your child could pursue, including supporting roles in and around fascinating STEM sectors.
