About STEM

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and is the economic currency and makes students employable in the global economy.

STEM is a statewide campaign that has been made possible through the support of state organizations including: Minnesota Department of Education, Minnesota High Tech Association, Minnesota Business Partnership, and Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. It is directed towards K-12 school students, their parents and educators, promoting the importance of achievement, the value of rigorous courses, particularly math and science, and the need for early career and postsecondary planning.

 
Margaret Anderson Kelliher

"getSTEM is a terrific way to unite local schools and businesses across Minnesota. Together, they can demonstrate to students and their parents the value of STEM careers."

Margaret Anderson Kelliher
President, Minnesota High Tech Association (MHTA)

 

 

Brenda Cassellius

"All Minnesota students should have the tools to excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics because these skills are critical to compete in our technology-driven global economy."

Brenda Cassellius
Minnesota Commissioner of Education

In a national poll of recent high school graduates, more than two-thirds who took Algebra II in high schools reported that they were well-prepared for the demands they faced in college and the workplace. In contrast, of graduates who took less than Algebra II, only four out of 10 say they were well prepared. (Source: Achieve Inc.)

Economic forecasts project 20-33% increase in scientific and technical occupations in Minnesota in ten years.

Students who complete Algebra II in high school more than double their chances of earning a four-year college degree. (Source: Achieve Inc.)

18 out of the 20 fastest growing occupations will be tied to the STEM disciplines. (Source: DEED)

80% of current jobs require education beyond high school. (Source: MnSCU)

High-tech workers earned an average wage of $68,600 (21st ranked), or 67 percent more than Minnesota's average private sector wage. (Source: Cyberstates 2007)