Mission-driven organizations often don’t need a new strategy. They need the systems, infrastructure, and implementation frameworks to turn vision into sustainable action.
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STEMM
Going Upstream: A Systems Approach to Solving the STEMM Talent Problem
The United States faces a critical shortage of STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) professionals. While demand is rising nearly three times faster than other fields, millions of jobs risk going unfilled due to systemic barriers and skills gaps. To solve this challenge, we must take an “upstream” approach—tackling root causes early by raising awareness, improving access, supporting achievement, assessing what works, and building alliances. Only through a systems-based strategy can we close the STEMM talent gap and strengthen both innovation and national security.
A Call to Action for a National Initiative to Increase US Well-being and Global Competitiveness
Advancements in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM) are fundamental to driving innovation, fostering well-being, and enhancing quality of life globally. In the United States, STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine) fields are pivotal for global competitiveness, national security, and economic growth, supporting 67% of all U.S. jobs and contributing 69% to the US GDP1. Addressing critical national and global challenges, such as climate change, public health crises, cybersecurity threats, and crumbling infrastructure hinges on innovative STEMM solutions.
