STEM Knowledge in Non-STEM Occupations: Implications for Community Colleges

ABSTRACT

The U.S. faces increasing demand for STEM knowledge, contributing to enhanced products, improved health care, more efficient energy sources, a preserved environment, safeguarded national security, and economic growth. In addition, high-paying occupations increasingly require STEM knowledge, and in non-STEM occupations, workers increasingly need STEM knowledge for workplace success and earn significantly more than those without such knowledge. Community colleges supply a major portion of STEM education to the current and future workforce, and researchers have examined the role of community colleges in preparing current and future workers with for STEM occupations but less so for non-STEM occupations. The current study examined STEM knowledge in non-STEM occupations in the U.S. Using data from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the findings included 19 major groups of non-STEM occupations and 15 STEM knowledge areas in non-STEM occupations. The study further found higher levels of STEM knowledge associated with higher wages for select areas and, using O*NET benchmark standards, identified the levels of STEM knowledge required in non-STEM occupations.

Availability of Data and Materials

The O*NET occupational datasets available at https://www.onetcenter.org/database.html

Department of Labor’s employment/wage data file available at https://www.bls.gov/oes/2017/may/oes_nat.htm