Tennessee Report Says Workers Needed With Math Skills

That’s where high schools like the STEM School of Chattanooga step in.

The STEM program offers students unique hands on learning in a wide array of fields that is constantly changing to meet the work force’s needs.

"Whether we are working on an energy unit and trying to build a car with no engine to creating games, from 3D printing prosthetics to potentially working with biology and river water and trying to figure out ways to clean and keep the environment safe," said Dr. Tony Donen who is the principal of the STEM School in Chattanooga. "They’re working on projects that are STEM content but in those projects they are trying to build their skills, critical thinking, collaboration and innovation."

The STEM school collaborates with local and national businesses to keep the students’ education state of the art.

One local business that designs and sells prosthetics around the world is always hiring good talent in these fields.

"I think there are a lot of opportunities in manufacturing and product development," said Michael Fillauer who is the president of Fillauer, LLC which makes prosthetics and orthotics. "I think it’s a great area for kids to look into going into. I know that there are other companies out there who are outsourcing their engineering. We’re not doing that. We feel like it’s an advantage to draw from the local market."

The report lists 25 jobs that are experiencing worker shortages with pay ranging from 30 to 75 dollars an hour.

High school students looking for job security would be wise to polish up their math skills.

"Here at STEM we get to do a lot of hands on activities in every class," said Ethan Rosenow who is a student at STEM and an aspiring engineer. "We design 3D models in history and lots of labs in science."

The STEM school will be graduating its first high school class this year.