It’s already August, and – for many – the first day of school is just around the corner.

Of course, you might be surprised to find a back-to-school blog article in this space. But the significance of education in tech-related fields and the opportunities for ambitious, self-starting professionals to contribute – and benefit – from continued learning are all at an extraordinary level.

In Washington, the foundation of our economy is constructed on the subjects of science, technology, engineering and math. Those areas, known as STEM fields, are the core for many, important employers – such as Boeing, Microsoft and the healthcare sector.

Despite the significance of STEM fields across the state, we’re falling short of demand when it comes to producing well-trained workers in those areas. In fact, our state is among the lowest in how much time our K-12 schools devote to science instruction and nearly last in the nation when it comes to degree production in science and engineering

Right now, midcareer adults working in the tech sector have many, constructive opportunities to help turn that tide in STEM education – and open new doors of opportunity for themselves. In the back-to-school spirit, here are three, excellent options:

1. Give back: Dedicate time to organizations committed to strengthening STEM education in this state. For example, the Washington Alliance for Better Schools (WABS) leverages resources, talent and intellectual capital to help over a quarter million young students graduate ready to succeed in their careers and in college. WABS connects businesses, community partners, and educators to bring real-world STEM applications to K-12 classrooms – and evolve the outlooks of young learners as they return to the classroom.
2. Earn new certifications: Working professionals can go back to school, as well, and stay on the leading edge of their industry. One way to do this is by learning new skills online through local community colleges – where students progress on their own time and at their own pace. Bellevue College offers a Business Software Specialist certificate, and Edmonds Community College has five IT certificate programs, including Web Development, Data Management, and Introduction to Network Security. Columbia Basin and Spokane Falls Community College offer similar credentials – and all are delivered online and via a model that measures knowledge, not how much time is spent in class.
3. Become a teacher: According to the Department of Education, there’s a teacher shortage in this state. And what better way to help guide young students toward rewarding careers in STEM fields than filling open positions with experienced technology professionals? WGU Washington – the online, state-endorsed university based in Seattle – offers a variety of post-baccalaureate, teacher preparation programs leading to careers in education. This option is well-suited for individuals in STEM-intensive fields. Plus, employees and members of organizations belonging to the WTIA receive a discount on WGU Washington’s already-low tuition.

Whether it’s volunteering, earning new credentials, or changing careers, capitalizing on the knowledge and skills of professional men and women in STEM fields will help keep our state strong in the global marketplace.

So, as the summer fades into the fall, all of us can start thinking about going back to school.