STEM education critical to meeting energy sector workforce needs, API study finds

A bachelor’s degree in a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) field more than doubles the likelihood that an individual will pursue a career in the oil and natural industry, according to a study released by the American Petroleum Institute (API) on Wednesday.

The study found that STEM education is equally important at other education levels, too. A four-year degree is not required for nearly half of STEM jobs and a third of STEM jobs are in blue-collar occupations.

That finding is particularly relevant to the oil and natural gas industry given that more than 1 million new blue-collar job opportunities are projected through 2035.

The API study also found that those who pursue careers earn more money than those who don’t — regardless of education level, gender, and race.

“The oil and natural gas industry will experience significant turnover and growth in the years to come, greatly expanding career opportunities for women and communities of color,” API President and CEO Jack Gerard said. “This study shows that STEM education is the key to creating a workforce that reflects the many faces of this great nation with skilled workers of all backgrounds.”

API projects that 1.9 million total jobs will be created within the industry through 2035. Almost 707,000 of those jobs will likely be filled by minorities and 290,000 of those jobs will likely be filled by women.

“This report will help shape government and education policies that will expand job opportunities and economic development for communities of color,” Joint Center President Spencer Overton said. “The study clearly shows that STEM education can be a primary driver of employment opportunities and economic mobility, especially as the economy evolves over the next decade. Energy is a growing sector, and it is critical that the future energy workforce reflect the diversity of our nation.”

Overall, nearly 20 percent of all jobs in the United States require STEM skills. Additionally, the number of STEM jobs is projected to grow by 9 percent through 2024, faster than other disciplines, the study found.