Global report

Early careerists and experienced professionals in STEM share similar reasons when choosing a career, as supported by the current ‘How the STEM world works’ research. Financial stability remains a top requirement for all STEM professionals, regardless of their career stage or location. However, those in Africa and Asia Pacific (APAC) region had a slightly stronger desire towards making a difference in the world, while US and European respondents leant more toward being financially secure. This could be down to the level of economic development of each of these regions where the More Economically Developed Countries (MEDC) seek financial outcomes first, but Less Economically Developed Countries (LEDC) look through a more altruistic lens.

Individuals and investors actively seek greener, more inclusive and ethical choices in today's world. Our data shows this is no different to young people, where purpose is a recurring driver in career choice. However, whilst non-financial drivers primarily influence young people to pursue a STEM career, financial security is one of their most important life goals. This suggests that in early career stages, personal desire to learn and make a difference in the world is more important, but financial stability does play a part in the long-term.

Employers seeking to attract young talent should head this insight. It highlights the importance of communicating the right message to a younger audience through value and impact, with a view to the long-term outcomes or benefits.

Respondents describe STEM fields positively using future-facing words. This sentiment is reinforced through our ‘How the STEM world works’ whitepaper, with experienced professionals stating they felt positive about the demand for their skills in their country or sector.

Regardless of career level, working at the intersection of in-demand skills within a changing society and economy provides a positive outlook on a STEM career.

Education from skills and training is the most important factor in securing that first STEM role over internships and work experience, which ranked second. But, when asked what the main obstacle to finding a STEM job was, respondents indicated that not having practical or work experience was the top barrier. This is contradictory as individuals highlight they lack real-world experience but attributed being able to secure a job to their education.

This suggests it could be down to the advertisements or requirements of the jobs available not matching the actual role requirements or training provided as part of the role over time. The key point here is that both factors are important and mutually beneficial for young talent.

Individual research is the predominant method used to find a job, followed by direction and support from trusty educational institutions as voted by respondents in Africa, APAC and Europe. Only respondents in the US felt that their education or training institution offered more support than the internet.

Despite age, gender, career level or STEM specialism, having no practical or work experience was the main obstacle respondents faced when finding a role.

The exception again was US respondents, who state their main obstacle is meeting entry-level requirements or having the correct qualifications. The difference in perception may indicate US education institutions aren’t sufficiently equipping individuals with the necessary skills for the jobs related to their field of study. Or employers' requirements for STEM jobs are too high, or employers need the right person now and are, therefore, not prepared to take on new recruits that require training.

Regardless, this shines light on possible solutions to help close the gap, as a STEM employer offering internships or as institutions designing courses around the practical application of the work as found in the real world.