Strategizing to Fill the Future STEM Workforce in the Digital Economy

As the global economy becomes increasingly digital, the demand for skilled professionals in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) continues to outpace supply. Addressing this challenge requires bold strategies, inclusive policies, and cross-sector collaboration. At STEMCON 2019 in Danang, Vietnam, I had the privilege of sharing actionable insights during a panel discussion on how to close this gap and prepare a future-ready STEM workforce.

1. Closing the Gender Gap in STEM

Despite the growing demand for STEM professionals, gender disparity remains a significant challenge. According to UNESCO Bangkok’s 2015 report, A Complex Formula: Girls and Women in STEM in Asia, providing fair and equal opportunities for girls to engage in STEM subjects from an early age is critical. Currently, women represent just 28% of scientific researchers worldwide (UNESCO Institute for Statistics), highlighting the untapped potential of a more diverse talent pool.

At Wiley, we are committed to promoting awareness and inclusion in STEM. For example, our partnership with the Singapore University of Technology and Design offers coding workshops designed to spark interest among girls and young women in STEM fields. By nurturing this interest early, we can help build a pipeline of diverse, capable STEM professionals.

2. Empowering Learners to Make Informed Decisions

In the digital age, technology enables access to vast learning resources at low marginal costs. This creates an unprecedented opportunity to harness data about learners' preferences, strengths, and abilities. Such insights can personalize learning experiences, guiding students to make better-informed decisions about their education and careers, particularly in STEM fields.

At Wiley, our unlimited subscription access model democratizes access to essential course materials, improving affordability and inclusivity. By analyzing learners' activity, we can offer tailored remediation and intervention, helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals. In the near future, we aim to connect these learning pathways with real-world career opportunities, empowering students to realize their aspirations in STEM professions.

3. Upskilling and Lifelong Learning for a Dynamic Workforce

STEM careers are characterized by constant innovation, requiring professionals to upskill continually. A traditional education earned at the beginning of a 45-year career is no longer sufficient. Moreover, aging populations in advanced economies intensify the need for ongoing skill development. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, for every 18 people retiring in advanced economies over the next decade, only 10 will enter the workforce.

To address these challenges, Wiley offers flexible learning options leading to industry-validated credentials. Our suite of courses in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity supports continuous reskilling for tech professionals. By fostering a culture of lifelong learning, we aim to equip STEM learners to thrive in dynamic markets and perform to their fullest potential.

A Call to Action

Preparing a future-ready STEM workforce is not just an educational challenge—it’s a societal imperative. By closing the gender gap, empowering learners with data-driven insights, and fostering lifelong learning, we can collectively build a resilient, innovative workforce ready to drive the digital economy.

At Wiley, we are proud to contribute to this mission through partnerships, cutting-edge resources, and flexible learning solutions. Together, we can bridge the gaps, unlock opportunities, and enable the next generation of STEM leaders to transform our world.

(Photo Credit: CJ Hwu)