The predictions are dire, the language grim: Looming shortfalls. Gathering storm. Disturbing mosaic.
No, it’s not the economy, global warming or the sitcom industry. It’s the coming shortage of U.S. scientists and engineers, foretold for decades by corporate, government and education advocates. While there have been warnings for more than 50 years, a renewed push over the past four years has earned the attention of both the Bush and Obama administrations. Speaking to the National Academy of Sciences in April, Obama announced “a renewed commitment to education in mathematics and science,” fulfilling a campaign promise to train 100,000 scientists and engineers during his presidency. Only problem: We may not have jobs for them all.
Office of Strategic Communication