6 answers
Danielle
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
1
Question
Asked
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What should I expect working in STEM?
I just started Job Corps and need to know this answer for my career planning class.
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6 answers
Sushmitha Jogula
Consultant/Functional Design Lead
3
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Sushmitha’s Answer
Hi Danielle, great question and I'm glad you're looking at STEM careers, and being a woman in tech from a STEM field of study (I studied Computer Science during my undergraduate studies and Information Systems during my graduate studies), I can definitely assure that it is very rewarding. From my experience, a career in STEM can be incredibly fulfilling and dynamic, offering opportunities to work on complex and meaningful problems, provide impactful and logical solutions, continuously learn, advance professionally, and contribute significantly to the technological advancement of our community as a whole. Additionally, this also involves dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace challenges and change!
Hope this helps and wish you the best in your upcoming endeavors!
Hope this helps and wish you the best in your upcoming endeavors!
Vera Vetter
Product Manager
22
Answers
Mountain View, California
Updated
Vera’s Answer
Hi Danielle, just to set some context, I've worked in Corporate Development/Technical Project Management/Product Management for a number of Tech companies.
In my experience, a career in Tech is about adaptability. The market and technology landscape is changing extremely rapidly. As many folks have mentioned, this change creates a fertile ground for learning and opportunities. That said, you'll see a lot of pivots and a constant search of "what's next". (e.g. what is the new business model to address market requirements?, what's the new product/capability to address customer needs that can be enabled with the new tech breakthrough?, what's the new tech that's going to disrupt the market).
In my experience, a career in Tech is about adaptability. The market and technology landscape is changing extremely rapidly. As many folks have mentioned, this change creates a fertile ground for learning and opportunities. That said, you'll see a lot of pivots and a constant search of "what's next". (e.g. what is the new business model to address market requirements?, what's the new product/capability to address customer needs that can be enabled with the new tech breakthrough?, what's the new tech that's going to disrupt the market).
Charity Queret
Generative AI Project Manager
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Charity’s Answer
Hi Danielle,
The previous responses covered the technical aspects of being a woman in STEM, but there's so much more to it. I've found that my soft skills have significantly contributed to my success and helped me stand out as an employee.
First, communication skills, both written and spoken, are critical. You'll often work with developers who are highly skilled technically but may struggle to effectively communicate requirements or project progress. Strong communication abilities can bridge this gap and enhance your overall impact in the field.
Second, adaptability is crucial. The tech industry is constantly evolving, and being able to quickly learn and adjust to new tools, technologies, and methodologies is essential.
Lastly, teamwork is vital. Collaborating effectively with diverse teams can lead to more innovative solutions and a more inclusive work environment.
The previous responses covered the technical aspects of being a woman in STEM, but there's so much more to it. I've found that my soft skills have significantly contributed to my success and helped me stand out as an employee.
First, communication skills, both written and spoken, are critical. You'll often work with developers who are highly skilled technically but may struggle to effectively communicate requirements or project progress. Strong communication abilities can bridge this gap and enhance your overall impact in the field.
Second, adaptability is crucial. The tech industry is constantly evolving, and being able to quickly learn and adjust to new tools, technologies, and methodologies is essential.
Lastly, teamwork is vital. Collaborating effectively with diverse teams can lead to more innovative solutions and a more inclusive work environment.
Katrine F.
Actuarial Analyst
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Katrine’s Answer
Hello Danielle,
I believe the previous answers covered a lot of what to expect while working in STEM. On a more personal level, if you find STEM fulfilling then hopefully that will carry over into your work and you'll continue to grow both personally and professionally while in the field. From my own experience, I enjoy working each day and find that time flies by very quickly because I get very engaged in the work that I do. I hope you have the same experience and enjoy it!
I believe the previous answers covered a lot of what to expect while working in STEM. On a more personal level, if you find STEM fulfilling then hopefully that will carry over into your work and you'll continue to grow both personally and professionally while in the field. From my own experience, I enjoy working each day and find that time flies by very quickly because I get very engaged in the work that I do. I hope you have the same experience and enjoy it!
Sarah Lee
Consultant
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Hi Danielle, as a consultant in the intersection of technology and finance, I would say that working in STEM is a constant learning experience. Each project I join provides opportunities to learn about business problems in the contexts of various industries and companies as well as how current innovations in technology can help us better solve these problems. To me, this continuous learning provides intellectual stimulation that keeps me from ever getting bored! It's always great to see women interested in STEM, best of luck as you navigate your career decisions!
Lefty Luciano
Music Production
8
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Lefty’s Answer
Working in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) can offer a wide range of opportunities and experiences depending on your field of expertise, job role, and industry. Here are some general aspects you can expect when working in STEM:
1. **Intellectual Stimulation**: STEM fields are characterized by innovation, problem-solving, and intellectual challenges. You can expect to work on complex problems, conduct research, and apply scientific principles to real-world issues.
2. **Continuous Learning**: STEM fields are constantly evolving due to advancements in technology, research, and methodologies. Expect to engage in lifelong learning to stay updated with the latest developments in your field.
3. **Collaboration**: Many STEM projects involve interdisciplinary teams working together to achieve common goals. You'll likely collaborate with scientists, engineers, researchers, and professionals from other disciplines to tackle complex problems.
4. **Hands-On Work**: Depending on your role, you may have opportunities for hands-on work, such as conducting experiments, building prototypes, or developing software. This can be both challenging and rewarding, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical applications.
5. **Variety of Career Paths**: STEM offers a diverse range of career paths across various industries, including healthcare, technology, aerospace, energy, environmental science, and more. Whether you're interested in research, development, engineering, data analysis, or teaching, there are opportunities available to suit your interests and skills.
6. **Job Security**: STEM occupations are in high demand and often offer greater job security compared to other fields. As technology continues to advance and society becomes increasingly reliant on STEM innovations, skilled professionals are needed to drive progress and solve complex challenges.
7. **Competitive Salaries**: STEM careers are often associated with competitive salaries due to the specialized skills and expertise required. Salaries can vary depending on factors such as education, experience, location, and industry sector.
8. **Impactful Work**: Many STEM professionals find fulfillment in knowing that their work has a meaningful impact on society. Whether you're developing life-saving medical treatments, designing sustainable technologies, or advancing our understanding of the universe, STEM careers offer opportunities to make a positive difference in the world.
9. **Flexibility**: Depending on your employer and role, you may have opportunities for flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, or part-time options. This can provide greater work-life balance and accommodate individual preferences and needs.
10. **Global Opportunities**: STEM is a global field, and there are opportunities to work and collaborate with professionals from around the world. Whether through international research collaborations, multinational corporations, or global initiatives, STEM offers opportunities for cross-cultural engagement and collaboration.
Overall, working in STEM can be intellectually stimulating, rewarding, and offer opportunities for professional growth and advancement. If you have a passion for science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, pursuing a career in STEM can open doors to exciting opportunities and contribute to positive change in the world.
1. **Intellectual Stimulation**: STEM fields are characterized by innovation, problem-solving, and intellectual challenges. You can expect to work on complex problems, conduct research, and apply scientific principles to real-world issues.
2. **Continuous Learning**: STEM fields are constantly evolving due to advancements in technology, research, and methodologies. Expect to engage in lifelong learning to stay updated with the latest developments in your field.
3. **Collaboration**: Many STEM projects involve interdisciplinary teams working together to achieve common goals. You'll likely collaborate with scientists, engineers, researchers, and professionals from other disciplines to tackle complex problems.
4. **Hands-On Work**: Depending on your role, you may have opportunities for hands-on work, such as conducting experiments, building prototypes, or developing software. This can be both challenging and rewarding, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical applications.
5. **Variety of Career Paths**: STEM offers a diverse range of career paths across various industries, including healthcare, technology, aerospace, energy, environmental science, and more. Whether you're interested in research, development, engineering, data analysis, or teaching, there are opportunities available to suit your interests and skills.
6. **Job Security**: STEM occupations are in high demand and often offer greater job security compared to other fields. As technology continues to advance and society becomes increasingly reliant on STEM innovations, skilled professionals are needed to drive progress and solve complex challenges.
7. **Competitive Salaries**: STEM careers are often associated with competitive salaries due to the specialized skills and expertise required. Salaries can vary depending on factors such as education, experience, location, and industry sector.
8. **Impactful Work**: Many STEM professionals find fulfillment in knowing that their work has a meaningful impact on society. Whether you're developing life-saving medical treatments, designing sustainable technologies, or advancing our understanding of the universe, STEM careers offer opportunities to make a positive difference in the world.
9. **Flexibility**: Depending on your employer and role, you may have opportunities for flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, or part-time options. This can provide greater work-life balance and accommodate individual preferences and needs.
10. **Global Opportunities**: STEM is a global field, and there are opportunities to work and collaborate with professionals from around the world. Whether through international research collaborations, multinational corporations, or global initiatives, STEM offers opportunities for cross-cultural engagement and collaboration.
Overall, working in STEM can be intellectually stimulating, rewarding, and offer opportunities for professional growth and advancement. If you have a passion for science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, pursuing a career in STEM can open doors to exciting opportunities and contribute to positive change in the world.