Education

Many students struggle with their STEM identity, meaning they don’t understand the range of opportunities available to them and how they might pursue these opportunities. This often results from limited exposure to STEM professionals and misconceptions about what STEM careers actually entail. Sometimes students struggle with specific subjects, like Algebra, and have difficulty seeing the relevance in these courses. The true power of STEM is in the practical application of what students are learning, using a range of knowledge and skills to solve authentic problems. When students see how STEM professionals use these skills to address real challenges—from designing sustainable buildings to developing medical treatments—they begin to see themselves as potential problem-solvers in these fields.

PLTW approaches the problem of Algebra 1, for example, by building in real-world problems in finance, health care, research, and other career areas so that students see how math is used to solve real problems by real people. Instead of just solving abstract equations, students might analyze data from a hospital to optimize patient care or calculate return on investment for a business. This approach is powerful for learning, and students rarely ask when they’re going to use what they’re learning because they’re already using it in a meaningful way. PLTW’s Algebra 1 Advantage curriculum connects mathematical concepts to careers students might not typically associate with math—from animal rescue and care to budgeting and planning—showing them that math is a powerful tool they can use in almost any field they choose.

Now more than ever, students can pursue a range of careers directly out of high school through pathways that include industry certifications, apprenticeships, and work-based learning experiences. Students can earn certifications in areas like cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, or health care technology—all fields with strong job growth and competitive salaries. However, students should count on continuing their education in some fashion after graduation, even if they don’t pursue a traditional four-year degree. In a world with such significant technological advances, we can’t stop learning. Technologies and industry practices that are current today may be outdated in just a few years, or sooner. This emphasis on lifelong learning is true for individuals at all stages of life and career, which is why many professionals regularly update their skills through additional training and certifications.

Students interested in health care, computer science, and data analytics should start by exploring their school’s career pathway programs and aligned course sequences. Outside the classroom, they can gain valuable experience through work-based learning opportunities, such as internships and job shadowing, while also seeking mentorship from professionals in their fields of interest. Industry-specific student organizations like HOSA (health care), Skills USA (technical skills), and robotics clubs offer hands-on experience and networking opportunities. These structured activities not only provide practical knowledge but also develop essential workplace skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, which are crucial for success in these high-demand fields.

Local businesses can support high school career readiness programs by sharing their real-world expertise through mentorship, workplace tours, and guest-speaking opportunities. They can partner with schools to create meaningful work-based learning experiences, including internships and apprenticeships that give students practical exposure to various career paths. Business leaders can also serve on advisory boards to help shape curriculum and ensure programs align with current industry needs and standards. Additionally, these partnerships can strengthen community support for career education by demonstrating the direct connection between classroom learning and workforce success.

Today’s workforce demands a blend of technical and interpersonal skills, with computational thinking and digital literacy serving as essential foundations for most modern careers. Strong social-emotional skills, including emotional intelligence and effective communication, are crucial for workplace success and team collaboration. Students need to develop creative problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills to address complex challenges in an evolving work environment. Additionally, ethical reasoning and professional judgment have become increasingly important as workplaces evolve and face new technological and societal shifts.