Create STEM Opportunities

BY JOANNA SLOMINKSI

In the past few years, North Dakota’s dynamic economy has spurred vigorous population growth, an employment surge and increasingly higher wages. Traditional career opportunities ranging from energy production, manufacturing and healthcare combined with emerging markets within STEM professions (science, technology, engineering and math) are driving the state to new heights.

STEM jobs currently represent just more than 3.3 percent of all jobs in our state, but it is projected that North Dakota will need to fill more than 5,000 STEM jobs in the next five years. The growing demand for skilled workers leaves an untapped opportunity to expand STEM employment and break down traditional barriers.

Mortenson is building partnerships with local schools, universities, trade associations and nonprofits to bridge the STEM skills gap and encourage today’s youth to consider jobs in construction or the trades.

Mortenson facilitates STEM mentorships for students, including an internship for a student from Sheyenne High School in West Fargo, N.D., this fall. Over the course of a semester, the STEM intern will gain relevant work experience through participation in the new $16.5 million West Fargo Public Schools Hockey Arena construction project. The intern will be given the opportunity to employ professional-level practice and gain continuous improvement by working alongside a mentor through all phases of the project.

In April 2016, Mortenson joined an impressive list of North Dakota businesses in sponsoring Expanding Horizons, a one-day conference that provides young women in grades 7 through 9 more than 40 hands-on workshop sessions each year at various locations throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area. Local professionals led the workshops and provided students opportunities to meet and form personal connections with women working in traditionally male occupations.

Opportunities for North Dakota businesses interested in advancing and developing a strong STEM workforce are abundant. Here are a few ideas:

 Consider offering academic scholarships that encourage high school, undergraduate or graduate students to pursue coursework in preparation for a career in a STEM industry.

 Pair company leaders with students of all ages interested in STEM careers for one-on-one mentorship. This is rewarding for all involved. An hour-long conversation over coffee could spark a student’s pursuit of a STEM career.

 For a practical experience, support a high school or college internship. Whether for a summer or semester, students can work side-by-side with industry leaders to jumpstart their career by developing the skill sets needed for the STEM workforce.

 Job shadowing and career counseling sessions might provide the insight needed for students to choose a pathway to STEM. Allowing students to observe STEM leaders in a professional setting can be an inspiration.

 Last, consider volunteering time. Offer your talents as a classroom speaker, student mentor, panelist or conference speaker.

These are just a few examples of real steps the business community can take to help bridge the STEM gap and build a strong North Dakota workforce. PB

Joanna Slominksi Construction Executive, Mortenson Fargo, N.D. joanna.slominski@mortenson.com