A solid foundation in Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) is preparing Iowans for a globally competitive job market. Today, more than 100,000 Iowa students in more than 3,000 classrooms and clubs are involved in STEM.
The Legislature began Iowa’s STEM efforts in 2008. Over the last six years, our state’s commitment to STEM has grown to include STEM-focused classrooms, teacher licenses, community festivals, partnerships between businesses and schools, and more.
Iowans say we need to continue to increase our investment in STEM. In 2013-14, the Legislature provided $5.2 million for STEM initiatives. In addition to state funding, STEM gets lots of support from grants, cost-sharing and private-sector investments.
A new report shows that 98 percent believe advancements in STEM will provide better job opportunities for Iowans. Virtually all students interested in STEM careers plan to get a college, graduate or professional degree, with many hoping to enter the medicine, health, animal sciences, biology, engineering and computer fields.
STEM occupations pay on average $10 more per hour and $20,000 more per year than other jobs. Yet in 2012, Iowa had about 10,000 vacancies in STEM jobs. As our state gains a reputation for workers with good STEM skills, we’ll be able to lure even more companies to Iowa, create great jobs and improve our economy.
Iowa’s STEM Advisory Council is designating a portion of the money the Legislature has provided to immerse more STEM students in professional environments through STEM Centers for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS). CAPS unite business and industry with STEM education to make the most of local strengths, challenges and resources.
All Iowa school districts serving grades 9-12 are eligible to apply for CAPS, in which learning is based on business and industry needs, with professionals and teachers providing real-world, problem-based assignments and projects. Learn more about being a part of CAPS at www.iowastem.gov/iowa-stem-center-advanced-professional-studies-caps.
For further information on STEM education in Iowa, go to www.IowaSTEM.gov.