STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

More about these four important areas:

  • Science: Scientists explore and study the natural world. They do experiments to learn how things work, for example: understanding how animals behave, how chemicals react, or how planets move in space.
  • Technology: Technology is about making and using tools to solve problems and make our lives easier. Think of your smartphone or computer – tech experts create and improve these devices, as well as many other gadgets and systems we use every day.
  • Engineering: Engineers design and build things, from bridges and cars to computers and buildings. They use science and math to create practical solutions and make sure everything works properly.
  • Mathematics: Math is all about numbers, shapes, and patterns. Mathematicians work on tricky math problems and help scientists, technologists, and engineers use math to solve real-world issues.

These STEM fields are closely connected, and people in these areas often work together to solve complicated problems and come up with new ideas. The knowledge and skills you gain in STEM can be used in many different jobs, like healthcare, energy, computers, and more. STEM is important for creating new technology, growing our economy, and making innovative discoveries. It also offers lots of job opportunities and helps make the world better.

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Education

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in a specific STEM field. Advanced degrees, such as Master’s or Ph.D., can be pursued for more specialized or research-oriented STEM careers, and continuing education and certifications are essential for staying up-to-date.

To Consider

  • Continuous learning is essential in this field.

Examples of Professional Areas (non-exhaustive)

Astronomy and Space Science

Experts in this field study celestial bodies, space exploration, and the universe’s mysteries.

Biological Sciences

Professionals in this field study living organisms and their interactions. Biologists can specialize in areas such as genetics, zoology, botany, or microbiology.

Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Professionals in this field work on biotechnological research, drug development, and bioprocessing.

Chemistry

This field includes a multitude of healthcare professionals, such as physicians (doctors), nurses, dentists, pharmacists, therapists (e.g., physical, occupational, and speech therapists), and various allied health professionals (e.g., radiologic technologists, medical laboratory scientists, and dietitians).
Chemists explore the composition, structure, and properties of matter. They may specialize in analytical, organic, inorganic, or physical chemistry.

Computer Science and Information Technology

These professionals work with computers and information systems. They develop software, manage networks, ensure cybersecurity, and more.

Energy and Environmental Engineering

These engineers focus on developing sustainable energy solutions and addressing environmental challenges.

Engineering

Engineers design and create systems and products. There are various engineering disciplines, such as civil engineering (infrastructure), mechanical engineering (machinery), electrical engineering (electronics), and many more.

Environmental Science

Environmental scientists study the environment and its issues. They can focus on ecology, conservation, and environmental engineering.

Forensic Science

Forensic scientists use scientific methods to solve crimes by examining evidence like fingerprints, DNA, and other forensic clues.

Geology and Earth Sciences

Geologists and earth scientists examine the Earth’s structure, history, and processes, helping to understand natural phenomena and geological resources.

Healthcare and Medicine

Healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and medical technologists, work to maintain and improve people’s health.

Materials Science

Materials scientists investigate the properties and uses of various materials, from metals to polymers and nanomaterials.

Mathematics

Mathematicians explore mathematical concepts, solve complex problems, and develop theories that underpin various scientific and engineering disciplines.

Physics

Physicists investigate the fundamental laws that govern the universe, covering areas like energy, motion, and the behavior of particles and waves.

Robotics and Automation

Experts in robotics and automation design and create machines and systems that perform tasks autonomously.

Social Sciences

Social scientists apply scientific methods to study human behavior, society, and the impact of science and technology on society.

STEM Education and Outreach

STEM educators and communicators play a crucial role in teaching and promoting STEM knowledge and enthusiasm.

Examples of Professions (non-exhaustive)

Actuary

Assess financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to help organizations make informed decisions about insurance, pension plans, and other financial matters.

Aerospace Engineer

Design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems, ensuring they meet safety, performance, and efficiency standards.

Analytical Chemist

Use specialized techniques to analyze and interpret the composition of substances, aiding in quality control, research, and development across various industries.

Astronomer

Study celestial objects and phenomena, utilizing telescopes and other instruments to observe and analyze the universe, while also developing theories and models to enhance our understanding of cosmic structures and processes.

Astrophysicist

Investigate the physical properties and behavior of celestial bodies and phenomena through the application of principles from physics and astronomy to deepen our understanding of the universe.

Automation Engineer

Design, develop, and implement systems and processes using technology and machinery to optimize and streamline industrial operations.

Biologist

Study living organisms and their interactions, conducting research to understand biological processes, ecosystems, and the principles of life to contribute to scientific knowledge and its applications.

Biomedical Engineer

Apply principles of engineering and biology to design and develop medical technologies, devices, and systems, aiming to improve healthcare and enhance the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of medical conditions.

Bioprocess Engineer

Design and optimize manufacturing processes for the production of biological products such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology-derived materials, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Biotechnologist

Apply biological principles and techniques to develop and enhance products, processes, and technologies in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and industry, aiming to address various societal challenges.

Botanist

Study plants, investigating their structure, function, classification, and ecological roles to contribute to our understanding of plant life, biodiversity, and their impact on the environment.

Chemical Engineer

Design and optimize processes for the large-scale production of chemicals, materials, and energy, integrating principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to ensure efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Chemist

Conduct research, experiments, and analyses to understand the properties and reactions of substances, contributing to the development of new materials, products, and processes in various industries.

Civil Engineer

Plan, design, and oversee the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects, such as buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems, ensuring functionality, safety, and compliance with regulations.

Conservation Scientist

Manage and implement strategies to preserve and sustainably manage natural resources and ecosystems, conducting research and assessments to promote environmental conservation and biodiversity.

Crime Scene Investigator

Collect, analyze, and process physical evidence from crime scenes to reconstruct events, aid in criminal investigations, and provide scientific support for the criminal justice system.

Cryptographer

Develop and implement secure communication and data protection algorithms, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of information in areas such as cybersecurity and cryptography.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Safeguard computer systems and networks by monitoring, detecting, and responding to security threats, implementing protective measures, and conducting risk assessments to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

Database Administrator

Design, implement, and maintain databases, ensuring efficient storage, organization, and retrieval of data, as well as addressing security and performance considerations.

Data Scientist

Analyze and interpret complex datasets using statistical and machine learning techniques to derive insights, inform decision-making, and develop predictive models in various domains.

Demographer

Study and analyze population dynamics, including birth rates, death rates, and migration patterns, to provide insights into population trends and inform social and economic policies.

Ecologist

Study the interactions between organisms and their environments, investigating the distribution and abundance of species, ecosystem dynamics, and the impact of human activities on ecological systems to inform conservation and environmental management strategies.

Electrical Engineer

Design, develop, and maintain systems and products related to the generation, distribution, and application of electrical power, as well as electronic devices and communication systems.

Energy Engineer

Design, analyze, and optimize systems and processes to ensure the efficient production, distribution, and utilization of energy, while also exploring and implementing sustainable and renewable energy solutions.

Environmental Consultant

Assess and advise on potential environmental impacts of projects, helping organizations comply with regulations, minimize ecological harm, and adopt sustainable practices.

Environmental Economist

Analyze the economic impact of environmental policies and issues, assessing the value of natural resources, evaluating the costs and benefits of environmental conservation, and developing strategies for sustainable economic development.

Environmental Engineer

Design and implement solutions to address environmental issues, such as pollution control, water and air quality management, and waste disposal, aiming to develop sustainable practices and mitigate the impact of human activities on ecosystems.

Environmental Scientist

Conduct research and fieldwork to analyze and address environmental issues, studying the impact of human activities on ecosystems, monitoring pollution levels, and developing strategies for sustainable resource management and conservation.

Experimental Physicist

Design and conduct experiments, often using advanced equipment and techniques, to investigate and understand the fundamental principles governing the behavior of matter and energy in the physical world.

Forensic Pathologist

Examine post-mortem evidence, including autopsies and medical records, to determine the cause of death and provide crucial information for legal investigations and court proceedings.

Forensic Scientist

Analyze and interpret physical evidence from crime scenes using scientific methods to assist law enforcement in solving crimes and providing expert testimony in legal proceedings.

Inorganic Chemist

Study the properties, structure, and reactions of inorganic compounds, elements, and materials, contributing to fields such as catalysis, materials science, and coordination chemistry.

Geneticist

Study the inheritance, variation, and function of genes, as well as their impact on traits and diseases, utilizing molecular and statistical techniques to contribute to our understanding of genetics and its applications in medicine, agriculture, and research.

Geologist

Study the Earth’s structure, composition, and processes, investigating rocks, minerals, and natural hazards to understand geological phenomena, assess environmental impacts, and contribute to resource exploration and land management.

Geophysicist

Use physical principles and techniques to study the Earth’s structure, composition, and processes, often employing seismic imaging and other methods to explore natural resources, understand tectonic activity, and assess environmental impacts.

Materials Scientist

Research and develop new materials or improve existing ones, studying their properties and applications to advance technologies in fields such as electronics, medicine, and energy.

Mathematician

Conduct research, develop theories, and apply mathematical principles to solve problems in diverse fields, contributing to advancements in science, technology, and various industries.

Mechanical Engineer

Design, analyze, and oversee the development of mechanical systems and devices, ensuring their efficiency, reliability, and safety in industries ranging from manufacturing to energy.

Mechatronics Engineer

Integrate mechanical, electronic, and computer engineering principles to design and develop intelligent systems and products, such as robotics and automated control systems, to enhance efficiency and functionality in various industries.

Medical Laboratory Technologist

Conduct tests on patient samples, analyze results, and assist in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases by providing accurate and reliable laboratory information to healthcare professionals.

Meteorologist

Analyze and interpret atmospheric conditions and phenomena, using scientific methods and computer models to forecast and communicate weather patterns and provide crucial information for public safety and planning.

Metallurgist

Study and manipulate the properties of metals and alloys, developing processes to extract, refine, and manufacture metallic materials for various applications in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and electronics.

Microbiologist

Study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, conducting research to understand their behavior, interactions, and applications in areas such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.

Nanotechnologist

Manipulate and engineer materials at the nanoscale to develop innovative technologies and applications with properties and functionalities distinct from those at larger scales.

Network Engineer

Design, implement, and manage computer networks, ensuring efficient data communication, security, and connectivity to meet the technological needs of organizations.

Nuclear Physicist

Study the properties and behavior of atomic nuclei and particles, conducting research to understand nuclear reactions, energy production, and fundamental aspects of matter in the field of nuclear physics.

Nurse

Provide patient care, administer medications, collaborate with healthcare teams, and educate patients to promote well-being and facilitate recovery in various healthcare settings.

Oceanographer

Study the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the ocean, conducting research to understand marine ecosystems, ocean circulation, and the impact of human activities on the world’s oceans.

Operations Research Analyst

Use mathematical modeling and analytical methods to help organizations make informed decisions, optimize processes, and solve complex problems in areas such as logistics, supply chain management, and resource allocation.

Organic Chemist

Investigate the structure, properties, and reactions of carbon-containing compounds, contributing to the development of new materials, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals in various industrial applications.

Pharmaceutical Researcher

Conduct scientific investigations and experiments to discover and develop new drugs, contributing to advancements in medicine and healthcare.

Pharmacist

Dispense medications, provide expertise on drug interactions and side effects, and collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective pharmaceutical care for patients.

Physical Chemist

Study the fundamental principles governing the behavior of matter and energy, using theoretical and experimental approaches to explore chemical reactions, molecular structures, and physical properties, contributing to advancements in various scientific and industrial fields.

Physician

Diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries, and medical conditions, applying medical knowledge, clinical expertise, and compassionate care to improve the health and well-being of patients.

Physicist

Conduct theoretical and experimental research to understand the fundamental principles of the universe, exploring the properties of matter, energy, space, and time through mathematical models and scientific experiments.

Planetary Scientist

Investigate the origin, evolution, and characteristics of planets, moons, and other celestial bodies in our solar system and beyond, utilizing data from space missions and telescopes to gain insights into planetary processes and conditions.

Polymer Scientist

Research and develop polymers, studying their chemical and physical properties to design new materials with diverse applications, from everyday products to advanced technologies.

Renewable Energy Specialist

Design, implement, and optimize sustainable energy systems, incorporating technologies like solar, wind, and hydropower to promote environmentally friendly and efficient energy production.

Research Analyst

Collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights and informed recommendations on various topics, supporting decision-making processes in areas such as finance, market research, and policy development.

Roboticist

Design, build, and program robots, applying principles from mechanical engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence to create machines capable of performing tasks autonomously or collaboratively with humans.

Science Communicator

Communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences through various mediums, bridging the gap between scientists and the public to promote understanding and engagement with scientific knowledge.

Seismologist

Study the Earth’s seismic activity, analyzing earthquakes and their effects to understand the Earth’s interior structure, seismic hazards, and contribute to earthquake preparedness and risk mitigation.

Social Scientist

Conduct research and analysis to understand human behavior, societies, and cultures, applying methods from disciplines such as sociology, psychology, and anthropology to address social issues and inform public policies.

Software Developer

Design, code, test, and maintain computer programs and applications, contributing to the development of software solutions that meet specific user needs and business requirements.

Space Researcher

Investigate celestial bodies, phenomena, and cosmic processes, conducting research and experiments to expand our understanding of the universe and contribute to advancements in space exploration and technology.

Statistician

Analyze and interpret data, design experiments, and develop statistical models to provide insights, inform decision-making, and solve problems across various fields such as science, business, and public policy.

STEM Curriculum Developer

Design and create educational materials, programs, and resources focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, aiming to enhance learning experiences and promote student engagement in these fields.

STEM Educator

Teach and facilitate learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, inspiring students through hands-on activities and projects to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Theoretical Physicist

Develop and explore mathematical models and hypotheses to advance our understanding of fundamental principles in physics, uncovering new insights into the nature of the universe.

Zoologist

Study animals’ behavior, physiology, and ecology, conducting research to contribute to our understanding of biodiversity, wildlife conservation, and the interactions between different species and their environments.

Common soft skills (non-exhaustive)

Professionals in the STEM fields require a combination of technical knowledge and soft skills to excel in their roles. Here are some common soft skills that are highly valued in these fields (note that all skills are not necessarily needed for every profession).

Adaptability: STEM fields evolve rapidly, so being open to change and learning new technologies and techniques is important. Adaptability allows professionals to stay current in their fields.

Attention to Detail: Precision is critical in many STEM jobs, especially in areas like laboratory work, software development, and engineering. Small errors can have significant consequences.

Communication: Clear and effective communication is vital for conveying complex ideas to both technical and non-technical audiences, collaborating with colleagues, and documenting research or project findings.

Critical Thinking: Critical thinking involves evaluating information, analyzing data, and making informed decisions. It’s crucial for drawing accurate conclusions and finding innovative solutions.

Curiosity: A strong desire to learn and explore is fundamental to success in STEM fields. It drives research, innovation, and the pursuit of new knowledge.

Empathy: Understanding the needs and perspectives of others, including end-users and colleagues, can lead to more effective problem-solving and collaboration.

Ethical and Responsible Conduct: Integrity and ethical behavior are crucial, particularly in research and development roles, to ensure the accuracy and credibility of work.

Innovation: The ability to think creatively and develop new ideas is at the heart of STEM fields, driving advancements in technology and science.

Leadership: Leadership skills can be valuable for leading teams, projects, or research initiatives and driving innovation within organizations.

Networking: Building a professional network is valuable for sharing ideas, finding mentors, and exploring new opportunities within the STEM community.

Organization: Good organization skills are valuable for managing data, resources, and project documentation. They also assist in keeping workspaces clean and safe.

Problem-Solving: STEM professionals often encounter complex problems that require creative and systematic solutions. Developing effective problem-solving skills is essential for overcoming challenges.

Resilience: STEM professionals often face setbacks and failures in their work. Resilience helps them bounce back from challenges and maintain motivation.

Teamwork: Many STEM projects are collaborative efforts. Working well in teams, respecting diverse perspectives, and contributing effectively to group goals are essential skills.

Time Management: Efficiently managing one’s time is essential, given the often demanding and project-based nature of STEM work. It helps meet deadlines and maintain productivity.

Resources to get your started

American Physical Society

Women in Aerospace

Girls Who Code

Women in Bio

IEEE Women in Engineering

Women in Robotics