How Qualcomm Is Empowering The Next Generation Of Workers With STEM Education

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were approximately 8.6 million STEM jobs in May 2015, with the highest jobs in software development, user support, and systems analysts. Despite the high number of jobs, the lack of skilled workers in the labor force allow these positions to go unfilled. To make matters worse, the existing STEM workforce lacks diversity among women and minorities, not representing the emerging workforce of women and underrepresented groups. Thats why Qualcomm has partnered with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology to provide technology, employee volunteers, and direct grants to support K-12 STEM education. FIRST, who we have written about in the past, presents STEM education to students of all grades and skill levels, introducing them to a world of robotics and software while developing invaluable skills of leadership, teamwork, and communication. Since 2006, Qualcomm has supported FIRST’s programs, events, and robotic teams worldwide.