Research from the Korn Ferry Institute shows that by 2030, the global talent shortage could reach 85.2 million people – costing businesses trillions in lost economic opportunities. And with unemployment in the U.S. at its lowest rate since 2000, employers struggle to fill job vacancies within a reasonable timeframe.
One of the solutions developed through the collaboration of PEB, the CNY STEM Hub, and business leaders involved in the CNY Tech Sector, is to develop a pool of local talent that is following a pathway to STEM-related careers. Seven years ago, a model program was created that involves scholarships for high-achieving high school seniors that plan to major in one of the careers that are sought by the businesses offering these four-year scholarships. Partners for Education & Business, Inc. (PEB) was challenged to oversee these companies’ scholarships and promote them through another creation of the CNY Technology Sector, a website for the public that addresses STEM programs and more – www.cnystem.com.
The group then decided that providing companies with networking opportunities with these college students would be ideal and so the STEM Scholar Connection events came to be! These events are offered twice each year – in January and July – and include panel discussions with H.R. and other professionals, resume and other workshops and, of course, networking. This summer’s STEM Scholar Connection event was held at TERACAI/CXtec on July 25th with 13 area businesses represented. If you are interested in being a part of future STEM Scholar Connection events or obtaining information on including your company in scholarship offerings, please contact Joe Vargo at [email protected] or 315 440-1966.
