Based on information from the Engineering For Kids website, according to the U. S. Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are growing at 17%, while other occupations are growing at 9.8%. STEM degree holders have a higher income even in non-STEM careers. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics workers play a key role in the sustained growth and stability of the U.S. economy, and are a critical component to helping the U.S. win the future. STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables the next generation of innovators.

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEM is important because it involves  every part of our lives. Science is everywhere in the world around us. Technology is continuously expanding into every aspect of our lives.. By exposing students to STEM and giving them opportunities to explore STEM-related concepts, they will develop a passion for it and hopefully pursue a job in a STEM field.

“In the 21st century, scientific and technological innovations have become increasingly important as we face the benefits and challenges of both globalization and a knowledge-based economy. To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past.” (National Science Foundation)

Bourbon County 4-H continues to incorporate more SET programming.  In  2010-2020 school year, students engaged in a new  school enrichment/school club program.  4-H'ers in all 4th and 5th grade classrooms in the community explored coding by working through challenges using Ozobots.  In groups of 2, students learned how to correctly code the mini-robots using color codes which made the Ozobot perform certain movements.  Students also learned teamwork and problem solving.