Programa Internacional (Spanish) Programa Internacional (Portuguese) Chinese Homestay (国 际 学 生 项 目) RU France

The “T” In STEM: Technology Education and Your Future

The “T” In STEM: Technology Education and Your Future

We continue our series that focuses on STEM education and the individual disciplines that are included.


STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. This is Part 2 of 4, focusing on the “T” part of the equation. Our purpose is to educate students and parents about the growing need for qualified workers in technology fields and some career paths to consider.

 

Why technology education matters

Technology is everywhere. Even if you never work in a tech field, you cannot escape using technology. From smartphones and digital assistants like Amazon Alexa to the Internet of things (IoT), there is no area where technology does not have an impact. Today’s students do not remember a time before these technologies existed. 

Technology education is about ensuring students have an understanding of how these tools work. At the same time, technology is used to enrich the educational experience in school. For example, many students now use iPads or other tablet devices as part of their everyday class routines.

You can see why technology education is critical for success in school and life. It can also lead to a satisfying career.

 

Technology and future careers

Technology is our future. From software development and IT support to technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is almost no area in which technology will not have an impact. A 2020 Cyberstates report found that 2.3 million tech jobs were added between 2010 and 2019. 

Experts believe the demand for tech jobs will continue to rise. Every industry relies on technology in some way. The need for qualified workers who are capable of programming, maintaining, and designing future technologies will be immense.

Career options

There are many ways to go when considering a career in technology. It is not hard to find an area that interests you. 

Some options include:
 

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer

  • Computer Animator

  • Computer Hardware Engineer

  • Computer and Information Research Scientist

  • Computer Network Architect

  • Computer Programmer

  • Computer Research Scientist

  • Computer Support Specialist

  • Computer Systems Administrator

  • Computer Systems Analyst

  • Data Analyst

  • Data Scientist

  • Database Administrator 

  • DevOps Engineer

  • Information Security Analyst

  • IT Manager

  • IT Security Specialist

  • Health Information Technician

  • Java Developer

  • Market Research Analyst

  • Mobile App Developer

  • Software Developer

  • Software Engineer

  • Video Game Designer

  • Web Developer

As you can see, there are many avenues to pursue if you are thinking of a career in technology. Most of these are high-paying jobs, even at the entry-level. 

 

What type of education do you need?

Job and education requirements vary widely depending on the specific field you wish to pursue. Some require only a high school diploma or associate degree, along with specific certifications. The highest-paying roles require a bachelor’s or even a master’s degree. For instance, computer and information research scientist jobs usually require a graduate degree. 

“Technology jobs often emphasize skills-based training over college experience, which means professionals with any level of education can secure positions in the field,” according to College Choice.

However, a college degree generally translates to a higher salary.

 

How a STEM education works

STEM education focuses on hands-on learning and real-world applications to ensure that students can build the skills they need. Along with science, technology, engineering, and math, students learn many so-called soft skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, creativity, communication, and leadership.

 

STEM curriculum at American Heritage School

American Heritage School integrates STEM learning in the earliest grades. Our Lower School students begin learning the fundamentals of reading and writing, along with an immersion in science, technology, engineering, and math. They attend regular computer science classes where they learn the fundamentals of coding and how to collaborate to program robots.

As students advance through middle and high school, they are enriched and challenged through a variety of activities, such as robotics and pre-engineering. The overall goal is to increase awareness of STEM careers, encourage interest in these fields, and give students the tools necessary to succeed in college. 

 

American Heritage Schools offers rigorous academics and opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, volunteer opportunities, academic clubs, sports, and fine arts. Our administration, teachers, staff, and counselors are here to encourage and support you and our students. 

If you are looking for a non-sectarian, co-educational college preparatory school, contact us to learn more. Speak to an admissions director and schedule an in-person or virtual tour.