S.T.E.M.

The Basics

STEM encompasses a vast array of fields dedicated to understanding, developing, and applying knowledge across scientific disciplines, technological advancements, engineering design, and mathematical principles. Professionals in STEM often conduct research, develop new products and processes, analyze data, design systems, and build infrastructure that shapes our world. The fundamental purpose of STEM is to drive innovation, improve quality of life, and address global challenges through scientific discovery and technological solutions.

Different roles within STEM are incredibly diverse, spanning various disciplines and specializations:

• Scientists (e.g., Biologist, Chemist, Physicist, Environmental Scientist, Data Scientist): Focus on conducting research, analyzing data, and developing theories to understand natural phenomena or complex systems.
• Engineers (e.g., Mechanical Engineer, Software Engineer, Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Biomedical Engineer): Apply scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, systems, and processes.
• Technologists (e.g., IT Professional, Cybersecurity Analyst, Web Developer, Network Administrator): Work with existing technologies, implement solutions, manage systems, and ensure their efficient operation and security.
• Mathematicians/Statisticians (e.g., Actuary, Statistician, Quantitative Analyst): Use mathematical theories and statistical methods to solve problems, interpret data, and model complex systems, often in finance, healthcare, or research.
• Research & Development (R&D) Professional: Works in various STEM fields to invent new products, processes, or knowledge, often bridging scientific discovery with practical application.
• Healthcare Scientist (e.g., Medical Laboratory Scientist, Epidemiologist, Pharmacologist): Applies scientific principles within healthcare settings, focusing on diagnosis, disease prevention, and treatment development.
• Geoscientist (e.g., Geologist, Meteorologist, Oceanographer): Studies the Earth’s physical structure, processes, and phenomena, often related to natural resources or environmental protection.
• Computer Scientist (e.g., AI/Machine Learning Engineer, Cybersecurity Researcher, Software Architect): Focuses on the theoretical foundations of information and computation and their practical implementation.

Where STEM Professionals Work

STEM careers are foundational to nearly every industry, making these skills highly sought after across a multitude of sectors:

• Technology Sector: Software companies, hardware manufacturers, cybersecurity firms, AI development, data analytics companies.
• Healthcare & Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, hospitals, research institutions, genomic companies.
• Manufacturing & Engineering: Automotive, aerospace, robotics, consumer goods, industrial equipment, construction firms.
• Energy Sector: Renewable energy (solar, wind), oil and gas, nuclear power, utility companies.
• Finance & Banking: Investment banks, insurance companies, fintech startups (for data analysis, algorithmic trading, risk management).
• Government & Defense: National labs, military, intelligence agencies, environmental protection agencies, public health departments.
• Academia & Research: Universities, dedicated research institutes, government-funded research centers.
• Environmental Services: Environmental consulting, conservation organizations, waste management, sustainable development.
• Agriculture & Food Science: Agri-tech companies, food processing, sustainable farming solutions.
• Consulting: Management consulting firms with specialized STEM divisions, technical consulting.
• Space Exploration: Aerospace companies, space agencies (e.g., NASA, SpaceX).

Why S.T.E.M.?

A career in STEM offers the unparalleled opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation, discovery, and problem-solving that directly impacts the world. You’ll engage in intellectually challenging work, continuously developing your analytical, critical thinking, and technical skills while contributing to advancements that shape society. The field provides the unique satisfaction of creating new technologies, understanding complex systems, and finding solutions to humanity’s most pressing challenges, from climate change and disease to sustainable energy and artificial intelligence. If you are driven by curiosity, a desire to build and innovate, and the ambition to make a tangible difference, STEM is an incredibly rewarding and impactful path.

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Preparation

Preparation for a career in STEM typically begins with a strong foundation in mathematics and science throughout high school, followed by a bachelor’s degree in a specific STEM discipline (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, Biology, Physics, Mathematics). Many advanced or research-focused roles will require a Master’s or Ph.D.

Key steps for preparation include:

• Strong Academic Foundation: Excel in high school courses like Algebra, Calculus, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Computer Science.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Earn a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field relevant to your interests. Consider accredited programs that offer hands-on experience and research opportunities.
• Advanced Degrees (Optional but Recommended): For specialized research, higher-level engineering, or academic roles, a Master’s or Ph.D. will often be necessary.
• Internships & Co-op Programs: Gain practical, real-world experience through internships or cooperative education programs. This is crucial for developing skills and making industry connections.
• Develop Core Skills: Cultivate strong analytical reasoning, problem-solving, data analysis, critical thinking, programming, technical writing, and teamwork skills.
• Hands-on Experience: Engage in lab work, research projects, coding challenges, design competitions, and personal projects to build practical expertise.
• Continuous Learning: The STEM landscape evolves rapidly. Commit to ongoing learning through online courses, certifications, workshops, and staying updated on industry trends and new technologies.
• Networking: Connect with professionals in your field through industry events, professional organizations, online forums, and informational interviews.

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What S.T.E.M. Majors Do

In the past five years, our STEM majors have launched successful careers across a remarkable breadth of industries, demonstrating the versatility and high demand for their skills. Graduates have joined leading technology giants like Amazon, Cisco, Splunk, Microsoft, Apple, and Google as Software Engineers, Full Stack Engineers, and Data Engineers. The financial sector has also been a major destination, with alumni becoming Financial Analysts, Quantitative Analysts, and Risk Analysts at firms such as Bank of America, Capital One, Wells Fargo, Deloitte, UBS, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and Morgan Stanley. Our STEM talent is also making significant contributions in healthcare and biotechnology at companies like CRH Healthcare, UnitedHealth Group, Mt. Sinai Hospital, AstraZeneca, Novavax, HCA, Clinical Ink, and Atrium Health, taking on roles such as Clinical Data Programmers, Biopharmaceutical Development Associate Engineers, and Research Associates.