As a woman or mother entering the workforce, you may desire a job that offers both a high salary and flexible hours. If that’s the case, you may consider pursuing a job in a STEM field. Not only are STEM jobs high-paying, but they are becoming more and more abundant as we live in an increasingly technological world!
What Is “STEM”?
STEM stands for “science, technology, engineering, and math,” and STEM jobs are any jobs that center around these fields. In fact, these jobs cover a huge expanse of skills and interests, from civil engineering to financial planning. So, you can undoubtedly find a STEM job that matches your own passions well! And don’t worry—you don’t have to have a degree in the sciences or engineering to pursue a STEM career. Many jobs only require an associate degree or a few years of field-specific training—both less expensive options than a bachelor’s degree.
Some possible STEM jobs include:
- Science: dental hygienist, registered nurse, athletic trainer
- Technology: web developer, graphic designer, computer support specialist
- Engineering: plumber, electrician, civil engineering technician
- Math: marketing manager, finance manager, architect, economist
- And many more!
Why STEM?
Not only are STEM jobs becoming increasingly abundant, making college graduates with STEM degrees the most desirable candidates entering the job market, but they pay extremely well, too! STEM jobs offered the highest starting salaries in 2016, averaging from $50,000 to $70,000 for STEM majors right out of school. Instead of having to work five, maybe 10 years for a company before reaching your desired salary, STEM jobs can provide this salary almost immediately.
Women in STEM Fields:
For years, STEM fields have been largely dominated by men. To make up for this, many companies have been encouraging, or even actively pursuing, women to work for them. Women offer an important perspective that many male-dominated fields have been missing, and employers are increasingly recognizing and acting on this. If you are a woman, there’s no better time to pursue a STEM career than now!
