CareerTechNJ

Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering (STEM) encompasses knowledge and skills that are essential for all sectors of the economy.  Numerous studies challenge our nation to increase the number of students who pursue STEM-focused degrees and careers.  County vocational-technical schools are leading the way, with specialized programs and career academies that enable talented students to pursue advanced study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Many offer students the chance to earn college credit as part of the high school experience.

Here are some of the career opportunities in this industry:
Aeronautical Engineer
Architect
Biotechnology Engineer/Researcher
Civil Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemist
Construction Engineer
Geneticist
Industrial Engineer
Marine Biologist
Mathematician
Physicist
Research/Lab Technician
Statistician

Around Our Schools
While their indoor classroom is a wonderous marine environment filled with fish and other coastal species, natural science technology students at Cape May Technical Schools also venture into the great outdoors to study marine life in its native habitat.

At Bergen County Academies, the Biotechnology Lab for Stem Cell Research is a state-of-the-art research facility that puts students on the cutting edge of scientific research as they study and manipulate stem cells. The emerging field of biotechnology is considered one of the prime growth areas in New Jersey.

The Middlesex County Academy for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Technologies  focuses on pre-engineering studies driven by a rigorous college preparatory curriculum. Located on the campus of Middlesex County College, it is the first New Jersey high school to specialize in engineering technologies where students have an opportunity to major in either electronics and computer engineering technology or civil and mechanical engineering technology.

Monmouth County’s Biotechnology High School is for students with a passion for science. They explore the research, laboratory and business skills that influence the future of fields including agriculture, medicine and the environment.

The Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES), operated by Ocean County Vocational Technical School District, is a state-of-the-art campus providing a challenging, hands-on learning experience for college bound and career-oriented students. With a concentration in math, science and technology, students are particularly focused on marine and environmental science. Students participate in fieldwork at a variety of local ecosystems and gain vital experience through research studies and internships.

Sussex County Technical School is the only high school participating in an international program in which teams of students fully design and manufacture a human-powered submarine. Competing and racing against teams from major universities around the world, students in Sussex Tech’s engineering technology program won a first place innovation award for their design of an underwater vehicle propelled by the pilot using both foot pedals and a hand mechanism. The team also earned third place for overall performance at this elite competition in 2007.

Videos and More Information
NJNextStop helps students and parents learn more about career interests and options, and the occupations and skills that are in demand in New Jersey.  Each industry page has several videos about the jobs that people in that field do. Here’s the link for the NJ Next Stop Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Page.

The National Association of State Directors of Career and Technical Education (NASDCTEc) has a web site that explains what students need to know and what courses they should take in high school in order to enter specific career areas.  Here’s the link for National resources for STEM