The Life Experiences of STEM Career Changers: A Bridge to Student College and Career Readiness

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 34
  In Roundtable Session: Teacher Longevity: Job Satisfaction, Expectations, and Expansion

Abstract

The global workforce is changing and numerous initiatives have recommended how to better prepare U.S. high school graduates for college, and careers of the future. Career changers bring a strong content background and practical/applied knowledge to the classroom that can help with student interest/engagement. This qualitative study focused on 22 STEM career changers, and the rich life and career experiences that they bring to the classroom. Thematic analysis identified 3 perceived strengths that career changers reported including, maturity and life skills, prior career skills, and the ability to link school content to the “real world”. This study gives voice to the lived experiences of STEM career changers and demonstrates how these teachers are a bridge to student college and career readiness.

Author

• Heather Meyer Reynolds, SUNY Empire State College