Did you know that it is estimated that over 600,000 manufacturing jobs are currently unfilled in the U.S. due to companies being unable to find workers with the right skills sets and experience? Manufacturing in this country is in the midst of a major recovery, and is a crucial part of our economy—and yet, small and large businesses alike can’t find the right people necessary to keep this recovery moving ahead.

One of the reasons for this is reshoring—companies near and far bringing business back to our shores—creating job openings throughout the country. Another reason is that many older generation manufacturing workers retired in the past few years. However, with business booming and Americans still needing jobs, there has to be an answer.

That answer, according to many government leaders, educators, and business owners, is to focus on the importance of STEM education. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education is not only critical to the future of young people (all jobs require it to some degree), but it is the key to getting young people employed in good manufacturing careers, and getting manufacturers good, skilled workers. It is the win-win.

Around the country, people are working to further STEM education. The STEM Education Coalition advocates for policies that will improve STEM education, while supporting teachers and educators. In smaller areas such as this one (www.northcenter-roscoevillage.patch.com), officials are supporting discussions and programs, while on the federal level, the White House has a plan to recruit 100,000 new STEM teachers .

At Fumex, we believe wholeheartedly in the importance of STEM. We design and manufacture complex pieces of equipment that support our clients through their quality and innovation; therefore, we require the best, most skilled engineers and technicians to get this job done. We stand by the importance of our products for people’s health and safety, and will only employ workers who have the skills sets to support this.

For us, for the country, for the industry and economy in general, STEM education is the future. Fumex is proud to donate to Georgia Youth Science & Technology Centers, Inc. We urge you to visit their website here > https://gystc.org/.