Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)

This Career Cluster encompasses careers involved in

Planning, managing, and providing scientific research and professional and technical services (e.g., physical science, social science, engineering) including laboratory and testing services, and research and development services.(1)

Career Pathways

Each Career Cluster has distinct Career Pathways, which are like work sub-areas.

In addition, each Career Pathway has a sample Plan of Study that details the courses a student might take, both during and after high school, to work in that sub-area.

This Career Cluster has the following Career Pathways:

Engineering and Technology

For a future in the Engineering and Technology pathway, students should study and apply principles from advanced mathematics, life sciences, physical science, earth and space science, and technology. In addition, future engineers and technologists should learn certain processes in mathematics, science and technology. In Grades 9-12, all future engineers and technologists should study mathematics each year, learning important mathematical concepts and processes defined by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics in Principles and Standards for School Mathematics. With such knowledge and skills, students will be able to demonstrate the following competencies: 1.) Apply mathematics, science and technology concepts to solve problems quantitatively in engineering projects involving design, development or production in various technologies; and 2.) Recognize the core concepts of technology and their relationships with engineering, science and math, and other subjects. All future engineers and technologists should learn important science concepts and processes with an understanding of physics, chemistry and biology as a minimal set. These concepts and processes are defined by the National Research Council in the National Science Education Standards and by the American Association for the Advancement of Science in Benchmarks for Science Literacy. Additionally, learners should become proficient in the areas of technology defined by the Standards for Technological Literacy.

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Science and Math

Those who choose careers in the Science and Mathematics pathway apply essential mathematics and science content and skills in a real world context. Science and mathematics occupations include those in physical, environmental and human endeavors. Career possibilities range from teachers of science and mathematics to lab technicians to NASA astronauts. Preparation for such occupations require the following: 1) Understanding the process and applying the skills necessary to engage in discovery; 2) Recognizing the need to obtain a broad education in science and mathematics and share (communicate) this knowledge with the world; and 3) Understanding the role of gathering, creating, processing and sharing data in science and mathematics.

Source(1): National Career Clusters™ site (original text and PDF's).