Coco Coders Empowers Tomorrow's Workforce with Early STEM Education
Employers are increasingly concerned about the availability of technical talent in the workforce. As technology advances rapidly, more industries depend on digital and technical skills. However, there's a significant mismatch between the skills employers need and what schools are preparing students for. A report from the National Skills Coalition found that 92% of jobs now require digital skills, yet nearly one-third of workers lack foundational digital skills. This skills gap poses a substantial economic risk, with estimates suggesting a potential loss of $8.5 trillion in economic output in the U.S. alone by 2030. Companies are acutely aware of this issue, with 87% acknowledging they already face or will soon face a skills gap. One of the most pressing issues contributing to this gap is the lack of educational courses designed to engage students in technology careers before they enter high school.
Research shows that getting kids involved in STEM activities before age 14 can significantly influence their future career choices and academic success. For instance, a study by Microsoft found that 78% of students who chose STEM subjects in college had made that decision by high school or earlier. Additionally, the National Girls Collaborative Project found that girls exposed to STEM activities and role models early on are more likely to follow STEM career paths. Programs targeting low-income and minority students have also shown significant improvements in interest and achievement in STEM, suggesting that early intervention can help bridge socioeconomic gaps.