Why STEM for Nevada?
"Nevada faces a serious workforce shortage in industries that demand skills in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Too few Nevadans consider STEM careers, in large part because they are not exposed to STEM education as students. Nevada’s future depends on its students being prepared to meet a wide variety of challenges. Those who have a solid foundation in real-world problem solving and experimentation, the bedrock of a rigorous STEM education, become confident, critical thinkers with the creativity to find solutions to the challenges they face. No matter the career pathway they pursue after high school, all students benefit from the skills learned in STEM."
—Brian Mitchell, Director, Nevada State Office of Innovation, Science and Technology
What is STEM?
STEM stands for Science, technology, engineering and math.
Growing demand
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics STEM Occupations and Salaries report, there will be a 34 percent increase in professional, scientific, and technical services employment by 2018. STEM industries in Nevada, like advanced manufacturing, IT, cyber security, energy and agriculture, are growing faster than non-STEM industries.
Beyond the growing demand from marquee employers like Tesla and Switch, there are hundreds of other Nevada companies that need workers with STEM skills as well. Companies like CalRamic Technologies, Sierra Nevada Corporation and Server Technology are just a few of those doing business in Nevada that require employees with science, technology and engineering training.
The demand for STEM trained professionals in Nevada is growing by 14%, versus 10% for non-STEM jobs.
Ability to make a difference
STEM offers our kids exciting career opportunities that afford them the opportunity to make an impact on their community and the world. Creating new products, solving ecological challenges, improving how we live—those pursuing STEM careers can make a difference in the world.
Grow your brain
Technology changes and evolves constantly. Scientific discoveries constantly force us to reevaluate our ideas about how the world works. In a STEM career, you will be challenged to think critically on a daily basis.
Make more money
On average, new STEM graduates earn more than graduates from other fields. Half of the available jobs in STEM industries do not require a four-year degree. The average wage of sub-baccalaureate STEM jobs is more than $50,000 per year, nearly 50 percent higher than that of non-STEM jobs with similar education requirements.
Median salaries for Nevada STEM jobs are $37.34/hour versus $17.70 for non-STEM.