We all use energy to power our lives every day. Oil, electricity, natural gas, these valuable resources are fundamental to civilization, and it’s imperative that we find new ways to use the energy we have and to find new sources of energy. That’s why Shell Oil, one of the largest oil companies in the world is focusing on the future of energy and those who will be innovators in the field with the STEM education program.
STEM which stands for science, technology, engineering, and math is part of Shell’s drive to stay competitive with the rest of the world and fill jobs in the respected fields with skilled workers. Specifically, skilled young workers. Shell has partnered with numerous organizations to help economically disadvantaged students move into successful careers in science and math. In addition to working with students in the program, Shell also trains teachers across the country so they can provide their students with STEM educations.
How much this effort is needed can’t be overstated enough. There simply aren’t enough Americans with the right skills in the fields of science and math to fill STEM-related jobs. And it’s not just biochemist and biophysicists positions. Machinists, medical technicians and pipefitting jobs are requiring more knowledge of math and science than they used to. It’s essentially a job sustainability crisis regarding science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. In sharp contrast to the 8.2 percent jobless rate, these industries hold millions of unfilled jobs.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a STEM talent gap of 3.5 million. And this number is expected to double by 2016. The major reason for the lack of talent is a decline in the educational pursuit and training in the STEM areas. Only sixteen percent of American undergraduates obtain a science or engineering degree, compared to 44 percent in China.
This is why Shell’s efforts to educate America’s students and teachers in these fields is so essential to the United States keeping up with the energy demands of tomorrow.