Strong Foundations: STEM in West Virginia

Across West Virginia, young people are aiming for greatness. Many of them are considering futures in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, which helps lay a strong foundation for West Virginia’s economic future. According to a 2011 senior opinion survey by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC), most students in West Virginia who plan to pursue a degree in a STEM field were strongly prepared for postsecondary education.

West Virginia on the National Stage

While our mountains are believed to create a protective barrier around our great state, the winds of change are no more a stranger to West Virginia than anywhere else. Industries, work force needs and education—everything is evolving at a rapid pace to meet demands of the global market. The entire health care system, from design to delivery of services and even the discovery of new treatments, seems to be in perpetual motion. New technology to improve communications, manufacturing and education are introduced every day.

Mountain State Manufacturing

Industry reigns supreme in West Virginia. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2011, the state reported 1,278 manufacturing facilities, and in 2012, total output from manufacturing was $6.2 billion. Manufacturing in West Virginia accounts for 9 percent of the total state output and employs 6.3 percent of its work force. The Mountain State…