The United States is facing a growing crisis: a severe shortage of workers in STEM, the supply chain and skilled trades. But here’s the good news: We have the talent and resources to start solving this problem today.
The labor shortage in these critical fields is not new, but it has been exacerbated by several factors, including an aging workforce; resignations and retirements accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic; a new phase of industrialization and rapid technological advancements in artificial intelligence and other areas that require a tech-ready workforce.
To solve this shortage and secure the nation’s economic future and maintain its global competitive edge, the United States must tap into the potential of girls, young women and underrepresented communities like we’ve never done before.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2019-2029 projections, job openings in STEM fields are expected to grow 8% by 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. And according to a May 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics report, health care employment will rise by 15% over that same period.
The supply chain and skilled trades sectors are experiencing a similar surge in demand for workers, driven by the need for robust logistical support and skilled labor in construction, manufacturing and maintenance. The need for a tech-ready workforce is evident across all of these sectors, and the rapidly developing world of artificial intelligence will transform the workforce in ways we can’t yet imagine.
Despite this growing demand, the pipeline of qualified candidates remains insufficient. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, even if every unemployed person in the country found a job, there would still be millions of open positions. Traditional recruitment efforts have failed to keep pace with the needs of these industries, largely due to a lack of focus on early talent development, an overreliance on existing labor pools, and a lack of access and exposure to opportunities. This is where a focus on girls and underrepresented communities becomes crucial. They represent a vast, largely untapped reservoir of potential talent. Systemic barriers and stereotypes have long discouraged these groups from pursuing careers in STEM, the supply chain and the skilled trades.
But if we dismantle these barriers and create inclusive pathways that provide economic security more rapidly for high school graduates, we expand the talent pool, which benefits employers’ customer and operational missions, creates technology advancements and addresses national security issues — all while increasing family and community stability.
Girls Action Network, is working to meet the career development needs of Gen Z and Gen Alpha girls today. In our national survey this year, we asked women 18-29 years old: “Looking back do you wish you had more personalization and more technology as part of your career planning and exploration process in high school?”
Almost 80% wished they had more personalization, and just slightly over 70% said more technology.
Role models and mentors from similar backgrounds play a pivotal role in inspiring and guiding young talent, showing them that success in these fields is not only possible but achievable. Traditional initiatives such as after-school clubs, summer camps and mentorship programs can spark interest and provide hands-on experience.
Nonprofits, schools, government leaders and communities can partner with industries to offer internships and apprenticeships, giving students real-world exposure and practical skills that will be invaluable in their future careers.
Investing in the recruitment and development of early talent from these untapped sources is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity. A diverse workforce brings a wealth of perspectives, ideas and solutions that drive innovation and progress. By tapping into the potential of girls and underrepresented communities, we can build a more resilient and dynamic labor force that is equipped to meet the challenges of the future.
We must ensure that every young person, regardless of their background, has the chance to contribute to and thrive in these vital fields.
