TAFE NSW Enhances STEM Careers

The demand for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workers was made apparent as Australia celebrated National Science Week from August 13 to 21.

Projected growth for STEM workers is projected to increase by 12.9 per cent over the next five years - well above the average of all occupations (7.8 per cent) and more than twice as fast as non-STEM occupations (6.2 per cent), according to the National Industry Insights Report.

TAFE NSW highlighted the importance of young people, particularly women, taking up STEM careers and dispelling the myth that you need a degree to gain a well-paying, meaningful job in STEM.

While often associated with the university sector, a report released by the Office of the Chief Scientist2 on Australia’s STEM workforce showed that the vocational education and training sector provided more than two-thirds of the country’s STEM workforce.

Minister for Skills and Training and Minister Science, Innovation and Technology, Alister Henskiins said that National Science Week was an excellent opportunity to celebrate the achievements of people across NSW.

“TAFE NSW offers dozens of courses linked to in-demand STEM skills in engineering and electrotechnology, agriculture and animal studies, information technology and cyber security, laboratory skills and chemistry,” Mr Henskens said.

“Graduates in these courses walk away with practical skills in booming industries, ready to walk into the workforce.”

• Topics:

• TAFE
• Science and Technology
• Education