High-skilled, high-paid jobs in science-based roles and engineering are set to boom, says Skills Minister Matthew Hancock.

Speaking today at the first StemTech Conference in London, he said the Government was working hard to inspire young people to take up science, technology, engineering and maths.

“STEM disciplines are the heartbeat of the modern world, leaving no field untouched. From agriculture to aviation, the analytical and problem-solving skills they develop are becoming more valuable than ever in a fast-changing, global economy,” he said.

“There has never been a greater focus in Government on inspiring young people – especially young women – to take up science, technology, engineering and maths.

“We’re working closely with business and industry to make the education system more rigorous and responsive, so that it truly delivers for young people, for employers and for our growing economy.”

Mr Hancock said good STEM skills would be more in demand in this country than elsewhere as the link between education and economic success grew.

“This vision of a richer pool of talent from top to bottom, from technicians to statisticians to physicians will not only lure companies to locate here and breed entirely new businesses, but, crucially, will help all young people, whatever their background,” he told the conference.

“Yet despite these incredible opportunities, we’re facing skill shortages that are expected to intensify as the economy recovers. Nearly 2 in 5 firms (39%) can’t find the

STEM talent they need, according to a CBI/Pearson survey carried out last year, with a similar proportion expecting these problems to persist over the next 3 years.”

The minister said the Government was strengthening the curriculum and boosting STEM teaching, as well as opening young people’s eyes to what they can do with good STEM skills.

“The truth is that STEM skills open doors to almost every field – and pay better than most other careers – 19% more than the average. Endless opportunities. More money. Better job security,” he said.

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