STEM
Definition
Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) do not form a single industry. They are more a collection of subject areas that are in demand by many different industries and companies, across London and beyond.
The science, engineering and technology industries together contribute over £68 billion a year to the UK economy and account for over a third of all UK exports.
These subject areas are crucial to all the other industries discussed in this section of London Colleges. In Information Communication Technology (ICT), Healthcare, Media audio/visual and Construction – as in many other areas of work – there is a considerable demand for employees with these skills.
Click here for useful links on studying and working in STEM.
STEM in London
In London, all employers are looking for numeracy, literacy, management and interpersonal skills. There is a particular need for workers with higher level skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), graduates or those with higher level qualifications such as HNCs, HNDs and Foundation degrees.
These skills are vital to growing industries in London as diverse as biotechnology, electrical engineering, electronics, forensic science, mechanical engineering, pharmaceuticals, nanotechnology, retailing, financial and creative services.
The number of opportunities is huge and people with these skills and qualifications are in high demand in London.
Jobs and careers
Studying in one of these areas could lead into many careers. Science, research and manufacturing all need skilled workers in London, but equally computer games companies, music recording studios, firms providing financial services and product design companies all need people with high level skills in these areas too.
In short, if you gain a qualification in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, you’re making yourself one of the most desirable employees in London.
Click here for useful links to find out more on computer games.
Science
Look here to find out more information about scientific research.
Growth areas include bioscience, pharmaceuticals and high level research and development. Areas like nanotechnology, quantum computing, photonics and sensors are forming the basis of new industries in the future, in particular in London.
Click here to find out more about technology and physics.
Technology
One area of technology that has undergone rapid change is ICT and E-skills. Working in technology can allow you to improve people’s lives directly, through improved healthcare[link healthcare], better transport, plentiful food, better education and variety of entertainment.
It can also help you do good in other ways. Improved communication and technology allows the spread of information and awareness, allowing people to find out more about their world. Many charities have used technology to good effect. The UN have had tremendous success spreading their anti-poverty message through a free to download computer game.
Click here to play the UN Food Force game yourself...
Engineering
Engineering is undergoing change in London. Traditional forms of engineering and manufacturing still exist, but the need for workers with traditional skills for heavy, industrial work is being matched by a demand for professional and technical engineering skills.
Engineering in London is increasingly made up of newly emerging areas which involve using similar high level skills with new technologies often on a smaller scale, such as nanotechnology and biotechnology. These businesses operate in an international marketplace, and recruiting the right staff is crucial for London’s continued competitiveness.
Engineering is an important element of other industries, such as Sound and broadcast engineers in Media, Civil engineers inConstruction and Telecoms engineers in ICT.
Maths
Maths is everywhere. It can be useful in almost every area of work. In many it is essential.
Click here for useful links to find out more about maths.
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