A new study from Science is US, an initiative of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, reveals that over 73.6 million Americans are employed in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medical fields—marking a 9.7% increase in just two years. Titled Science at Work: The People and Industries Powering America’s Prosperity, the study highlights the growing influence of the STEMM workforce on the U.S. economy.
Findings from the Report
The report draws on 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and economic modeling from IMPLAN, underscoring the critical need for broader investment and inclusion in STEMM careers.
STEMM Workforce by the Numbers:
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73.6 million STEMM professionals now make up 34% of the U.S. workforce.
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This segment contributes $10.8 trillion (39.2%) to the national GDP.
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STEMM occupations generate:
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$20 trillion in total sales output
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$6.9 trillion in labor income
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$1.6 trillion in federal tax revenue
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$715 billion in state and local taxes
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Educational Diversity:
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53% of STEMM workers (35.5 million) do not hold a bachelor’s degree.
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More have a high school diploma or GED (18.8%) than a master’s (12.9%) or doctoral degree (5.5%).
Wage Comparison:
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STEMM median annual wage: $94,003
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Non-STEMM median annual wage: $52,354
The Outlook: Strong Growth Ahead
According to BLS projections, STEMM occupations are expected to grow 10.5% between 2023 and 2033—outpacing all other industry sectors.
Top Growth Roles Include:
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Data Scientists
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Information Security Analysts
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Medical and Health Services Managers
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Computer and Information Research Scientists
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Operations Research Analysts
“It takes intentional investment and cooperation among educators, businesses, policymakers and communities to expand entry points into STEMM careers,” said Tatiana Nin, Interim Executive Director of Science is US.
Redefining the STEMM Workforce
The study calls for broadening the definition of STEMM professionals, encompassing roles that involve science or math-based functions. This includes:
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Agricultural Technicians
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Bookkeepers
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Electricians
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Logisticians
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Plumbers
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Pharmacists
This expanded understanding reflects the real-world diversity of the STEMM workforce and its contribution to the national economy.
Top 10 U.S. Regions with Highest STEMM Representation
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District of Columbia
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Michigan
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Massachusetts
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New Hampshire
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Indiana
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Connecticut
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Ohio
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Utah
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Alabama
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Wisconsin
“By strengthening federal support for research and enhancing workforce stability, the nation can continue to attract and retain global STEMM talent,” said Joanne Padrón Carney, Chief Government Relations Officer, AAAS.
The Science at Work report makes a compelling case for inclusive workforce development, policy support, and sustained investment in America’s STEMM talent. As the workforce diversifies and demand for skilled professionals rises, this data-driven insight serves as a blueprint for the future of U.S. economic growth and innovation.
