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Chemistry Solutions
Dear Labby,
I noticed that this year, more than ever before, I teach many scientifically minded students who demonstrate a lot of potential. They are eager to work in a hands-on, STEM environment, but simply are not interested in going to a 4-year college after high school. What resources can I provide for them? What are their options for pursuing a future in science without first obtaining a traditional undergraduate degree in science?Sincerely,
Supporting Future Scientists
Dear Supporting Future Scientists,
It’s wonderful to hear that many of your students see a future in science and thank you for supporting them on their journey!
The National Science Board estimates that there are over 16 million jobs in the skilled technical workforce that don’t require a 4-year college degree but require STEM knowledge including the safe use of chemicals, data collection and analysis, familiarity with lab equipment and techniques, and communication of experimental results.
As a teacher you can prepare your students by engaging them with a lab activity from the Chemical Technical Professional Resource Collection, part of the AACT Classroom Resource Library. These hands-on lessons were designed specifically to provide students with the opportunity to take on the role of skilled technical workers in a real-world scenario, helping them to learn more about specific roles in the industry and to practice some of the skills that would be used in these jobs.
I also encourage you to visit the ACS Chemical Technical Professionals webpage, where you’ll find an educator resources toolkit, information on paths to chemical technical careers, academic and hands-on training programs, career profiles, webinar recordings, and more information that could help introduce students to these types of careers.
The Chemical Technical Professional Career Quiz, created by the C&EN Brand Lab would also be valuable to help these students discover the variety of chemistry careers available without a four-year degree. This quiz identifies some of the chemistry-related technical professions that might suit a specific set of skills, interests, and goals.
Please reassure your students that there are many opportunities for a future in STEM and continue to encourage their pursuit!
Yours in Chemistry,
Labby