Jobs in STEM professions—science, technology, engineering, and math—are projected to be the fastest growing occupations in Connecticut through 2030.
That is according to a new report from the Connecticut Department of Labor and the Department of Economic and Community Development.
The report projects 18,330 new jobs in STEM by 2030—a 16% increase from 2020.
Jobs in computing, engineering, management, and sales are projected to make up 57% of new jobs in the sector.
Growth
The report describes STEM jobs as “high-growth, good paying occupations” that provide a variety of career opportunities for workers.
And by 2030, they are expected to make up 9% of Connecticut’s workforce, just above the 8.7% for the national workforce.
“If STEM succeeds, Connecticut succeeds.”CBIA’s Chris DiPentima
CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima said the growth of STEM jobs “gives Connecticut one of the strongest workforces in the country.”
“Connecticut is not a huge retail state,” he said. “When you look at industry demographics, a lot of positions are in STEM.
“So if STEM succeeds, Connecticut succeeds.”
Labor Shortage
DiPentima said that while Connecticut is on the right track, the workforce needs even more STEM workers.
Employers have felt the brunt of the lack of skilled workers, he said.
Eighty four percent of business leaders told CBIA’s 2022 Survey of Connecticut Businesses they experienced difficulty finding and/or retaining workers.
“The jobs are there—we just need to develop the talent to fill them.”DiPentima
And 39% said the lack of skilled applicants is the greatest obstacle to growth.
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