President Trump is expected to sign the “Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act” which would make veterans eligible for National Science Foundation programs connected to careers in STEM and computer science.
Rosalinda Maury is the Director of Applied Research and Analytics at Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Maury answers three questions about what this legislation could mean for veterans. She also co-authored the careers report, “Enhancing veteran’s access to STEM education and careers: A labor market analysis of veterans in the STEM workforce.”
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Why is it important to bolster the opportunities for veterans to get a STEM education?
Maury says: “It’s extremely important because we know the military is actually very STEM-oriented. The ability to have an education through this legislation, for veterans to be able to do what they did in the military in their post-military lives, is a huge advantage.”
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What kind of access do veterans currently have to STEM education and careers?
Maury says: “I think there are a number of challenges for veterans that are looking to pursue STEM education. Those challenges could include a lack of financial resources, their G.I. Bill benefits running out, and the difficulty of the work-life balance – a lot of them work full time and go to school. The hope is that wherever they go and with their educational pursuits, there are the resources there to help them tackle these challenges.”
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How does legislation like the “Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act” and STEM educational opportunities help veterans with their transition from the military?
Maury says: “I think this type of education offers an easier transition. But even those military members with experience from their time in service may need to go back to school for certification or further education. Take the technology field for example…service members have exposure to technology in the military, but you do need some form of education to get exposure in the civilian world. I think that STEM education combined with military experience allows for an extremely valuable skills asset for any person.”
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