Some of the STEM skills that translate well into the office include:
- Problem-solving: STEM professionals are trained to solve complex problems. This skill is highly valued in the workplace, as employees who can identify and solve problems quickly and effectively are more likely to succeed.
- Critical thinking: STEM professionals are trained to think critically and analyze information. This skill is essential in the workplace as employees who can analyze information and make informed decisions can offer a different perspective on issues and opportunities.
- Data analysis: STEM professionals are encouraged to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. This skill is valued at the workplace as employees who can think creatively and come up with new ideas are high in demand.
- Coding skills: As businesses and organizations rely more on technology to operate, employees who are skilled in programming and coding can develop and maintain software systems, websites and digital tools that help the organization operate more efficiently.
Industry 4.0 is revolutionizing manufacturing processes and has a powerful impact on globalization by changing the workforce and increasing access to new skills and knowledge. The World Economic Forum estimates that by 2025, 50% of all employees will need reskilling due to the adoption of new technologies in education.
Future of Work
A third of the essential skills in 2025 will consist of technology competencies not yet regarded as crucial to today’s job requirements. As such, the demand for STEM skills is growing in the modern workplace due to the increasing use of technology and data across industries. As businesses and organizations rely more on technology and data to make informed decisions, employees with STEM skills are highly valuable and appealing.
According to a recent Accenture report, digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are transforming the nature of work and the skills needed to thrive. Humans and machines will increasingly work together to drive productivity. For example, AI could increase productivity by 40% and double annual economic growth rates by 2035 in developed economies. Employees agree, with 82% acknowledging that digital technologies will transform the way they work in the next three years.
And while technological skills will be important in Industry 5.0, there will also be a growing need for workers with soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills will be important for employees to collaborate effectively with machines and with other workers, to respond to the changing demands of the workplace.
