A DoD Perspective on STEM Education

Robert Hummel, PhD and Patrick Cheetham

Synesis: A Journal of Science, Technology, Ethics, and Policy 2012; 3(1):T25-36

The US Department of Defense (DoD) relies on science and engineering researchers to develop the technologies that provide the leading military capabilities for national security. We find that the current national production rate of scientists and engineers is sufficient to provide an adequate supply of scientists and engineers for the DoD research and engineering enterprise into the future. We advocate a need for DoD to recruit the top scientists and engineers into careers and endeavors that support defense capabilities, and that DoD recruit in those fields that best provide for future needs and capabilities. Based on the strategic guidance and the DoD S&T priorities, we make some suggestions as to strategic areas for DoD science and engineering recruitment.

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Key words: STEM strategy, top talent, defense critical technologies, knowledge base