Why STEM is the key to breaking the employment and education gap for minority students

There are a lot of problems in our world today. But one of the most pressing issues is the employment and education gap that exists for minority students, particularly those from low-income households. The good news is that there is a solution: STEM.

What is STEM?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. It’s an interdisciplinary approach to learning that allows students to apply knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios. STEM education has been shown to help close the achievement gap between minority and non-minority students. In fact, studies have shown that STEM programs can increase graduation rates for minority students by as much as 20%.

How does STEM help close the employment and education gap?
There are a few reasons. First, jobs in STEM fields are some of the most in-demand and highest-paying jobs out there. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth in STEM occupations is projected to be nearly double that of non-STEM occupations between now and 2024. Second, jobs in STEM fields are more resilient to economic downturns. When the economy takes a hit, jobs in industries like manufacturing or construction are often among the first to go. But because jobs in STEM fields are largely driven by innovation and creativity, they tend to be more stable during times of economic turmoil.

Finally, jobs in STEM fields are more likely to lead to upward mobility. A recent study found that nearly 60% of people who started out in a low-wage job and moved into a high-wage job did so because they had obtained skills or credentials in a STEM field. Not only do jobs in STEM fields pay well, but they also provide opportunities for career advancement—something that can be hard to come by for minority students from low-income households.

If we want to close the employment and education gap for minority students, we need to invest in STEM programs. These programs provide minority students with much-needed skills and training that can help them land high-paying jobs with good career prospects. With more minority students entering into well-paying STEM careers, we can finally begin to close the wealth disparity that exists in our country today.