According to an IBM study, most people feel they lack the qualifications to pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers.
The global study found that 61% of the 14,000 people surveyed said they didn’t have the right college degree for a STEM job, and 60% believe acquiring the digital skills for a STEM job would be expensive.
Figures for the UK revealed that two-thirds of people looking for a job and 75% of those considering a career change do not believe they have the qualifications for a STEM career.
Justina Nixon-Saintil, Chief Impact Officer at IBM, said, “Technology education can have a transformative effect on a person’s life. There are many misconceptions about what it takes to pursue a rewarding and lucrative career in today’s fast-paced workplace.
“That’s why we need to raise awareness of the breadth of science and technology roles that exist across all industries. Together with our IBM SkillsBuild partners, we highlight the many avenues that exist for underrepresented communities to pursue their future in technology.
There is still a skills gap in the UK tech industry, with many digital leaders saying access to the right talent is hinder the realization of projects.
But there are many reasons why the tech pipeline is leaking – for example, many young people think it’s ‘too late’ for them to pursue tech careers due to lack of training.
More than 60% of students worldwide and those looking to change careers are looking for a new job next year, and 80% of people will spend the next two years developing their skills, with 90% saying they will turn to online courses to do so, according to the IBM study.
Over 85% of people who have acquired digital skills said it has helped their careers and many want to learn more digital skills.
In the UK, half of students surveyed said they wanted to work in a STEM role, but 40% said they didn’t know how to go about getting the vocational or technical skills development to qualify for a job in STEM.
Interest in STEM jobs is high, with half of respondents saying they would consider a STEM-related role, but many don’t understand what STEM roles are or what they entail.
There is long-standing misconceptions about tech careersthe types of people who work in them, what they involve or how to pursue them – 64% of those looking for a new career are unaware of the ins and outs of STEM jobs, with many not really sure what roles within a STEM career counts as a STEM job.
More than 60% of respondents said they were unsure if they could find a STEM role paying enough, but 66% believe there will be an increase in STEM roles over the next 10 years.
UK students also have a better understanding of STEM roles – over 70% believe the number of STEM jobs will increase over the next 10 years.
IBM has partnered with 45 global education partners to help overcome some of the barriers surrounding STEM careers and equip people with the skills needed for such roles.