Lack of awareness around the opportunities STEM holds for their future careers is students’ number one barrier to entry into the industry.

This is according to a survey of more than 150 students attending the 6^th annual STEM South West Expo in Cork last week.

The event drew over 2500 students, parents, and educators to Cork, spotlighting the transformative potential of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers in solving global challenges. With this year’s theme, “The World Needs You: Solving Global Challenges with STEM”, the event emphasised how STEM can address pressing issues such as climate change, healthcare, robotics, artificial intelligence, and MedTech.

Respondents to the survey cited their top three possible reasons for not pursuing or considering a career in STEM:

1. Lack of Knowledge About STEM Careers – 29%
2. Perception of Difficulty – 21%
3. Uncertainty About Ability to Handle STEM Subjects – 20%

The experts at STEM South West say these insights underline the need for better communication around STEM opportunities and support systems to build confidence and engagement among students.

Mary Good, Chair of STEM South West, spoke of the significance of empowering the next generation,

“Ireland is at a pivotal moment in ensuring its place as a global leader in tech, pharma, MedTech, engineering, and biosciences. For students, STEM is not just a pathway to incredible careers but a chance to contribute to solving the world’s most urgent problems – from healthcare and climate change to housing and energy. By inspiring and equipping today’s students with the skills to innovate and lead, we can secure a brighter future for all.

Ireland’s current STEM industry base and the companies that choose to locate here depend on a robust talent pipeline. Together, we must ensure our students are on board.

We must make students aware of the vast possibilities that lie ahead if they choose a career in STEM. The pathways available are diverse and abundant, ranging from cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence and robotics to groundbreaking work in healthcare and environmental science. By highlighting these opportunities, we can inspire students to envision themselves as the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.”

STEM Education: The Key to Ireland’s Future Success
To maintain its position as a global hub for innovation, STEM Southwest estimates that at least 35% of Ireland’s 964,000 primary and secondary students will need to pursue STEM education. Current participation trends at the third level show approximately 30% of students studying STEM, with female participation growing steadily at 40% of STEM students

Ms. Good concluded,

“Educating students about the myriads of career options in STEM not only broadens their horizons but also equips them with the knowledge and confidence to pursue these fields. Our goal is to ensure that every student understands the potential impact they can have on the world through a STEM career, and to provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.”