Current Realities

Based on student performance, there is a clear need for students to choose advanced courses in science, mathematics and technology. The need for females and minorities to choose and succeed academically in these courses is important to our future economy. The ability for the US to sustain its scientific and technological superiority will depend on our actions now to maintain a competitive edge in the 21st century. Given the lack of student enrollment in the STEM areas in the US and the enormous commitment demonstrated by other countries to succeed in science and technology, the US is truly at risk. The phrase, “it takes a village to raise a child applies to the theme of this project. Schools can not do this alone, it takes a community effort to educate children and to provide opportunities and choices so their future is meaningful. It may be true that businesses can still be profitable and operate with engineers and scientists from other countries, however, the sense of community pride will be nothing more than a memory from the past. The collaborative nature of the Center will foster relationships between schools, corporations and government to ensure our children have the tools necessary to pursue the fields that will make a difference not only in their lives but for the stability and competitiveness of our country.

Consider the following facts:

• By 2010, if current trends continue, more than 90 percent of all scientist and engineers in the world will be living in Asia.
• South Korea, with one-sixth of our population, graduates as many engineers as the US.
• More than 50 percent of all engineering doctoral degrees awarded by US engineering colleges are to foreign nationals.
• However, security concerns are reducing the number of foreign students available to study and work in the US, while these students have increasing opportunities to study and work in their home countries and other nations.
• The number of engineering degrees awarded in the US is down 20 percent from the peak year of 1985.
• Although US fourth graders score well against international competition, they fall near the bottom or dead last by 12th grade in Mathematics and Science, respectively.
  Source: Business Roundtable (7-25-05) Tapping America's Potential: The Education for Innovation Initiative