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Like every state in the union, Oklahoma needs college graduates to fill the workforce. Those with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) are the future of not only our state but of our nation. For decades America led the world in all aspects of research and development in new, ground-breaking inventions. As such, we drove the race into space and landed on the moon. But it didn’t end there. New developments drive manufacturing and agriculture as well. The importance of STEM is well illustrated by the new classrooms and labs being built at our high school.
But we have a problem. Math and reading scores are on a years-long decline across the nation. The pandemic only served to worsen the capabilities of students. Studies by the Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education found that only 14% of our high school students are ready for college. SAT and ACT scores were so low student eligibility for college admission fell to levels that drove our institutes of higher education to drop the requirement. And, as such, students failed and dropped out of college at concerning rates.
We are now barely in the top 10 compared to other nations. As of 2023, our nation's math scores are the worst in 50 years. But things are starting to change. Two major colleges re-instated the ACT/SAT requirement for enrollment this fall. It should only be a matter of time before OU and OSU follow suit.
The current buzzword used to describe the importance of STEM is “data literacy,” which is defined as “the ability to read, understand, interpret, engage with, and communicate data.” “The data-literate can evaluate the quality and reliability of data, ask informed questions, and effectively communicate data-driven findings.” That’s a mouthful to swallow. But the bottom line is the realization that only STEM-capable workers will be able to lead new scientific and technological breakthroughs that not only help people but, in reality, help our nation’s economic survival.
The Oklahoma workforce study reports that half of the future jobs in our state will require a college degree, with the greatest number being STEM-related. We can meet this challenge. You can meet this challenge. Don’t let age or finances stop you. There are scholarships and mentors ready to help create a degree-completion plan. Remember: Knowledge is power, and no one can take that away from you.
I grew up in a time when we had unquestionable optimism about the future. Right now we are living with political instability in an unstable world, all driving economic uncertainty. But one thing is certain: a STEM-related college degree provides a successful path for your future and ensures your place in tomorrow’s workforce. It will never “go out of style” as, from a technology perspective, our world is advancing at eye-watering speed. Imagine yourself being part of it. Then call the University Center in Ponca City. They are ready to help.
NOTE: quotes are from a column by Elena Gerstmann and Laura Albert in The Hill 02/04/2024.
At the University Center, our commitment is to develop high levels of quality relationships with our students. Our support staff works tirelessly to make sure that student needs are met and that our professors have the tools necessary to provide a high-quality education.
We hope you will stop by the University Center and speak with us about the opportunities available to you. We have a dedicated staff ready to provide you with the tools to start your journey to earn a degree in higher education. The University Center is committed to bringing degree programs to Ponca City that our students need to be effective in a global economy. We have a strong desire to see each of our students succeed and be ready to make a positive economic impact in our region.
We encourage you to begin today, and let us be the first to say, “Welcome to your future.” Please enjoy your visit to the University Center at Ponca City. To find out more about our programs, visit us online at www.ucponcacity.com
