STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, and it’s been an integral part the nation’s workforce since 2001 when it was introduced by the National Science Foundation. Today, November 8, we’re celebrating National STEM Day!
Despite the growth of STEM programs and learning opportunities – and celebrations like National STEM Day – there is still an overwhelming gap in the market for more STEM-trained workers. Particularly in the oil and natural gas industry where the employment opportunities are on the rise across a variety of career paths. The Department of Energy revealed in a 2018 article that STEM occupations for mining, oil, and natural gas extraction alone number more than 650,000 last year alone.
As the natural gas and oil industry becomes more and more technologically advanced, the true need for individuals with a background in STEM education will continue to grow. The industry employs all types of jobs ranging from meteorologists to GIS specialists to engineers who all play very important roles.
This is why Cabot not only advocates for STEM in schools but works to teach it throughout the community. One of our primary ways to bring STEM learning to students is through the Mobile Oilfield Learning Unit, or MOLU. We’ve highlighted the MOLU before but always want to stress the importance of pairing STEM topics with hands-on learning to truly bring these topics to life.
Having students begin to think about careers early in their educational path is critical, and a job within a STEM-related field is a wonderful opportunity. In fact, in 2015, the national average wage for all STEM occupations was $87,570, nearly double the national average wage for non-STEM occupations, according to a study released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The jobs are out there; it’s simply a matter of helping students become aware of them. The MOLU program strives to give students this education by providing a hands-on experience.
