STEM Careers: Exploring the Pathways and Opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
By Mohd Zakry MS (MIFA Academy)
The rapid advancement of technology and the increasing need for innovation in various industries have made STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields some of the most dynamic and rewarding career paths today. From developing cutting-edge medical treatments to solving climate change issues, STEM professionals are at the forefront of solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges. As these fields continue to evolve, there is a growing demand for skilled individuals in STEM-related jobs across diverse industries.
What is STEM?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These fields encompass a broad range of disciplines and industries that require critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. STEM careers are focused around discovering new knowledge, improving existing technologies, and solving complex problems through innovation and creativity. While the four categories (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) each represent distinct areas, they often overlap, with professionals in STEM fields frequently working across multiple disciplines to address real-world challenges. In today’s job market, STEM-related roles span a wide range of sectors, from healthcare and energy to finance and entertainment.
Why Pursue a STEM Career?
In 2021, Malaysia was reported to raise its proportion of STEM students to as high as 60%, to meet the future need for science, engineering and tech professionals. In 2020, the percentage of students in STEM was 47.18 per cent. Malaysia also needs more engineers. At the end of 2022, there were around 187,900 engineers registered, according to the Board of Engineers Malaysia. This leaves the country’s engineer-to-population ratio at one to 170. This is lower than in developed countries such as Germany and France, where the ratio is at one to 100, as per Malaysian Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation (MOSTI), YB Chang Lih Kang, who studied civil engineering at the Universiti Putra Malaysia.
There are several compelling reasons to pursue a career in STEM, including:
1. Job Demand and Growth: STEM jobs are among the fastest-growing in the labour market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), STEM occupations are projected to grow at a much higher rate than the average for all occupations over the next decade.
2. High Earning Potential: STEM careers tend to offer some of the highest-paying jobs. Professionals in engineering, software development, and biotechnology, for example, can earn significantly higher salaries than those in non-STEM fields.
3. Diverse Opportunities: The vast range of industries and fields within STEM means that there are countless career options available. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, data science, renewable energy, space exploration, or artificial intelligence, STEM careers offer diverse opportunities.
4. Impact and Innovation: STEM professionals have the chance to make a tangible difference in society. Whether you’re developing life-saving medical technologies or designing sustainable energy solutions, STEM careers offer the chance to create innovations that can improve lives globally.
Top STEM Career Paths
The world of STEM offers a variety of career paths, each with its own focus and opportunities. Below are some of the most popular and growing STEM careers:
1. Software Developer / Software Engineer
– Role: Software developers create applications and systems that run on computers or mobile devices. They work with programming languages, databases, and other software tools to design, code, and test software.
– Skills Required: Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++), problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail.
– Job Outlook: The BLS reports that employment for software developers is projected to grow by 22% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
– Average Salary: Estimated around MYR80,000 – MYR110,000 per year, depending on the level of experience and location.
2. Data Scientist / Data Analyst
– Role: Data scientists collect, analyze, and interpret large sets of data to help organizations make informed business decisions. They use statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to extract insights from data.
– Skills Required: Expertise in programming (R, Python), statistical analysis, data
visualization, and machine learning.
– Job Outlook: The demand for data scientists is expected to grow by 35% from 2020 to 2030, making it one of the fastest-growing career paths in STEM.
– Average Salary: Data scientists could earn an average of MYR70,000– MYR90,000 annually.
3. Biomedical Engineer
– Role: Biomedical engineers apply principles of engineering and biological sciences to develop medical devices, prosthetics, and diagnostic equipment. They work in hospitals, research labs, and manufacturing companies.
– Skills Required: Strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and engineering principles, as well as proficiency in software for simulation and modelling.
– Job Outlook: Biomedical engineering jobs are expected to grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030.
– Average Salary: Around MYR100,000 per year.
4. Civil Engineer
– Role: Civil engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects such as
roads, bridges, dams, and water supply systems. They ensure that these structures
are safe, efficient, and sustainable.
– Skills Required: Strong knowledge of engineering principles, project management, and the ability to use CAD software for design.
– Job Outlook: Employment of civil engineers is expected to grow by 8% over the next decade.
– Average Salary: Approximately between MYR90,000 – MYR150,000 per year, depending on level of project experience and job location.
5. Environmental Scientist
– Role: Environmental scientists analyse and develop solutions to address environmental challenges, including pollution, climate change, and resource management. They work to protect natural resources and improve sustainability practices.
– Skills Required: Knowledge of environmental laws, biology, chemistry, and data collection techniques. Familiarity with GIS (Geographical Information Systems) is often required.
– Job Outlook: The employment of environmental scientists is projected to grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030.
– Average Salary: Estimated around MYR80,000 – MYR120,000 per annum.
6. Machine Learning Engineer
– Role: Machine learning engineers develop algorithms and systems that allow computers to learn from data and make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed. This technology is used in everything from voice recognition
to self-driving cars.
– Skills Required: Deep understanding of algorithms, data structures, and machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).- Job Outlook: Machine learning is a rapidly growing field, with demand for experts increasing across various sectors.
– Average Salary: Machine learning engineers typically earn between MYR120,000
– MYR150,000 annually.
7. Cybersecurity Specialist
– Role: Cybersecurity specialists protect organizations from digital threats by implementing security measures and monitoring networks for suspicious activity. They work to prevent data breaches, hacking, and other forms of cybercrime.
– Skills Required: Expertise in computer networks, cryptography, ethical hacking, and knowledge of security protocols.
– Job Outlook: Employment in cybersecurity is expected to grow by 35% from 2021 to 2031.
– Average Salary: Cybersecurity specialists earn around MYR95,000 to MYR120,000 annually.
8. Astronomer / Astrophysicist
– Role: Astronomers study celestial bodies such as stars, planets, and galaxies to understand the universe’s origins and evolution. Astrophysicists focus on the physical properties of these bodies and their interactions.
– Skills Required: Strong background in physics and mathematics, as well as proficiency in data analysis and simulation tools.
– Job Outlook: While a highly specialized field, astronomy and astrophysics careers are expected to grow at a steady pace, especially with ongoing space exploration.
– Average Salary: Estimated around MYR120,000 – MYR160,000 per year.
How to Pursue a STEM Career
To enter a STEM field, individuals typically need at least a minimum diploma or bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, although many advanced roles, such as data science or biomedical engineering, may require a master’s degree or as high as doctorate level. In addition to formal education, hands-on experience, internships in the relevant industries, and relevant certifications can greatly enhance your qualifications. Many STEM careers also offer opportunities for continuous learning and development as technology and methodologies evolve.
The Future of STEM Jobs
As technology advances and the global economy evolves, new opportunities in STEM fields will continue to emerge. Areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, quantum computing, and space exploration are expected to be at the forefront of innovation in the coming decades. For those considering a career in STEM, the future looks bright with countless opportunities to shape the world through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Conclusion
STEM careers offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for individuals who are passionate about solving problems, pushing the boundaries of knowledge, and making a positive impact on the world. Whether you are interested in developing life-saving technologies, understanding the mysteries of the universe, or ensuring the safety and sustainability of the planet, STEM fields provide a wealth of career options that are both intellectually stimulating and financially rewarding. The key is to explore your interests, build the necessary skills, and embrace the rapidly changing world of STEM.
References:
1. https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysia-wants-more-stem-students-and-engineers-to-drive-tech-ambitions, 29th March 2023
2 The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023.