Research STEM

National STEM Day: Young people find tech inspiring, but a quarter will not choose careers in this industry

To mark National STEM Day, new research reveals that despite 70% of young people finding tech inspiring, a quarter (25%) are not currently considering a career in this sector. That’s according to the latest research from Goodwood’s Future Lab.

The survey of 1,000 14- to 24-year-olds also found that while 59% want to be involved in creating tech that will change the world, a further third (33%) would never choose a career in the STEM sector. When asked why they are not planning to pursue these professions, almost half (48%) said they feel they are not suited and a further one in five (21%) believe that the field is too difficult for them.

Commenting on the findings, Stuart Parker, who heads up Goodwood’s Future Lab, said: “It is inspiring to see that younger generations want to help make the world a better place using technology. However, more still needs to be done to highlight the importance of these roles in creating a better future for everyone.

Despite some young people having reservations about their suitability to these roles, it is vital to encourage the leaders of the future to choose careers in STEM and help to change the world for the good. By spotlighting some of the most innovative visions of future tech and science from around the world, Future Lab is already playing its part in inspiring young people to pioneer world-changing technology.”

More work to be done to encourage the leaders of the future to work in STEM

Future Lab 2021 was themed around ‘technology for a better world’. The event presented a range of exhibitors – from deep ocean exploration and conservation to futuristic electric vehicles – that completely embody the innovation that will be required to tackle climate change.

Tickets for the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed – home of Future Lab – are now on sale and available here

Main Photo Credit: Stephanie O’Callaghan

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