Every year since 2015, the 8th day of November is dedicated to the celebration of STEM. This day comes as a golden opportunity to appreciate the contributions of STEM professionals and inspire young minds to pursue careers in the related fields. But honestly, why is STEM so important that a day was reserved just to celebrate it? Well, let’s dive in!
“We need people with science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills to solve tough problems. Scientists and engineers tackle pressing issues, like creating new medicines or developing technology to use energy more efficiently” (DoDSTEM).
The Importance of STEM
To really understand the impact of STEM, one may start by understanding the meaning behind every letter of the acronym itself. For this one, we have used one of our favorite knowledge bases, the Oxford Dictionary Online.
S for Science is “the knowledge about the structure and behavior of the natural and physical world, based on facts that you can prove, for example by experiments.”
T for Technology is “scientific knowledge used in practical ways in industry, for example in designing new machines.”
E for Engineering is “the activity of applying scientific knowledge to the design, building and control of machines, roads, bridges, electrical equipment, etc.”
M for Mathematics is “the study of numbers and shapes. Branches of mathematics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry and trigonometry.”
Together, these descriptions create STEM as “an interdisciplinary approach that combines these four disciplines, allowing students to apply academic concepts in real-world contexts.” (Britannica, 2024)
STEM is not one of these buzz-words commonly used these days to generate engagement on social media or create a frenzy online. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics have played a crucial role in our societies for as long as we have existed. Thanks to these fields of studies, we now live in a highly modern world with just about everything designed for our own convenience, luxury, health and freedom. From medicines that treat once deadly diseases, to buildings and machines that defy gravity, tiny electronics that synthesize billions of databases into specific information in a fraction of a minute, and machines that perform what was once known as human activities.
STEM & The United States Government
From addressing global challenges and advancing society to creating sustainable energy sources, STEM has held a premium seat in the development of the United States. As a matter of fact, the term itself was first coined in 2021 by the National Science Foundation (NSF), an independent U.S. government agency whose mission is “To promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; and to secure the national defense; and for other purposes.” ( U.S. National Science Foundation, n.d.) So needless to say that the United States government actively supports STEM education and research.
Each year, through agencies such the (NSF) and the Department of Education (DOE), the government funds research and development projects supporting STEM education programs at various levels, and provides grants to universities and institutions to foster a diverse and capable STEM workforce. Thanks to these coordinated efforts, innovation and technological advancements have been made possible, which are more efficient, powerful with an impact at a global level. A prime example of this is the NSF’s America Seed Fund, also known as the SBIR/STTR program.
“In the 21st century, knowledge-based societies must work together in an increasingly interconnected world. Science and technology partnerships that the United States forms with other countries address essential issues such as sustainable economic growth, urban development, public health, climate change, environmental security, national security, and nonproliferation.” (U.S. Department of Sate)
That being said, the celebration itself would not be what it is without those who teach and learn it with so much love, passion and dedication.
Who are STEM Students?
STEM professionals are at the forefront of innovation. They possess the critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills necessary to tackle complex issues and find creative solutions. So it is easy to think that STEM students are just some super powerful humans (maybe even inhumans) with an IQ that not everyone can match. Yet, and truthfully, the answer to this question is simple. Anyone with an interest can create, participate in, and complete a STEM curriculum to become a professional in the field. Starting with the little ones.
Whether it is a young child playing with Legos, or a college student that never misses his/her physics and math classes, everyone can contribute to and join the world of STEM. Some of the world’s famous individuals who have participated in STEM and made unique contributions have started at a young age. We cite names such as Elon Musk in engineering who founded SpaceX and Tesla, Mark Zuckerberg in technology who started innovative projects when he was just 12 years old, and Bill Gates who at 13 (late 1960s) wrote his first computer software program.
STEM Careers and Opportunities
Careers in STEM branch out into many professions. For example STEM skills and academia are utilized in robotics, engineering, space, computer science, cyber security, and environmental science. Those who go into STEM can develop their skills and abilities to help advance society. It is also important to note that STEM jobs are in high demand, and they tend to pay very well.
STEM offers a wide range of career paths, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse interests and talents. From robotics engineers to environmental scientists, STEM professionals work in various industries, including healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and transportation. STEM careers are in high demand and offer competitive salaries, making them attractive to job seekers.
Are you or someone you know interested in STEM
STEM Outreach & Celebration
To encourage more students to pursue STEM careers, various organizations and initiatives focus on STEM outreach. These programs aim to engage young minds in STEM activities, provide hands-on learning opportunities, and connect students with STEM professionals. Participating in STEM outreach programs can help students develop their interests, explore different career paths, and gain valuable skills.
National STEM Day is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the achievements of STEM professionals and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. Here are some ways to participate in National STEM Day festivities:
- Attend local STEM events, such as science fairs, workshops, and exhibitions.
- Visit museums, science centers, and planetariums to learn about STEM topics and engage in interactive exhibits.
- Participate in STEM outreach programs by volunteering at science fairs, mentoring students, or organizing STEM-related activities in your community.
- Share stories of successful STEM professionals to inspire young people and raise awareness about the importance of STEM education.
- Use social media to engage in conversations about STEM, share STEM-related content, and connect with STEM professionals and organizations.
- Join an organization whose mission is closely related to STEM. Did you know that OTguided Inc is one of these organizations?
By celebrating National STEM Day, we not only acknowledge the vital contributions of STEM to our society, but we most importantly spike enough levels of interest to encourage innovation, boost creativity, and stimulate out-of-the box thinking for a future for where each and all find a little bit of something or somewhere they belong.
References:
https://www.dodstem.us/stem-day/
https://makerkids.com/famous-people-stem-makerkids/
https://www.chloeckirk.com/2021/01/27/stem-outreach-what-is-it-and-how-to-get-involved/
Hallinen, Judith. “STEM”. Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Nov. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/topic/STEM-education. Accessed 8 November 2024.
History – About NSF | NSF – National Science Foundation, https://new.nsf.gov/about/history
