What is STEM Education?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. The STEM approach to education transforms the typical teacher-centered classroom by encouraging curriculum that is driven by problem-solving, discovery and exploratory learning. The STEM learning method requires students to actively engage a situation in order to find its solution.

With the STEM approach, knowledge is taught the way it is used in the real world, with concepts and subjects interwoven seamlessly. Curiosity is encouraged and a love of learning is promoted. Soft skills of teamwork, collaboration and communication are instilled. Students have the opportunity to fail and try again in a safe environment.

Why is STEM so Important?

Studies show that children who experience STEM education early on will be best equipped to understand and apply concepts later in their academic careers. Giving our youth the tools to succeed in STEM provides them with a significant advantage in their college and career.

STEM Statistics

STEM JOBS ARE GROWING FAST.

  • Between 2017 and 2027, STEM jobs are projected to grow 13%, compared to 9% for non-STEM jobs. (via Change the Equation)

STEM EARNINGS ARE HIGH.

  • The average median hourly wage for STEM jobs is more than 200% higher ($38.85) than that for all other types of jobs in the US ($19.30). (via Change the Equation)

  • The national average for STEM job annual salaries is almost double the national average for non-STEM occupations ($87,570 vs. $45,700). (via the Bureau of Labor Statistics)

STEM UNEMPLOYMENT IS LOW.

  • The unemployment rate in STEM occupations is 60% lower than in non-STEM jobs (2.2% vs. 5.5%). (via Change the Equation)

BUT SUPPLIES OF STEM TALENT ARE LIMITED.

  • As of 2018, 2.4 million STEM jobs were left unfilled due to lack of skills and qualifications. (via Smithsonian Science Education Center)

  • The US last ranked 38th of 71 countries in math, and 24th in science. (Program for International Student Assessment – PISA)

  • Only 36% of high school graduate are ready to take college-level science.

  • Only 28% of high school freshmen are interested in studying a STEM subject after high school.

  • Only 16% of high school seniors are interested in a STEM career.


In 2018, the HTEF & PTO came together to raise funds for the new HTS STEM Lab.

Multiple sponsorship opportunities existed to make the STEM Lab a reality.

Thank you all for those that contributed and donated to make this a reality for our students.

A BIG THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS THAT HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THIS CAUSE.