Addressing the Gap Between Graduates' Skills and Employers' Expectations in Atmospheric Geosciences
The article discusses the skills gap in the atmospheric geosciences field, highlighting key technical and communication skills needed by graduates and postgrads. It explores strategies to bridge this gap through surveys, creative solutions, and innovative approaches like updating degree requirements and promoting real research integration in coursework. The ultimate goal is to align graduate skills with employer expectations and enhance access to opportunities in atmospheric geosciences.
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SOARS Center for Undergraduate Research air planet people NCAR UCAR The gap between graduates skills and employers expectations Val Sloan, Ph.D.
The job forecast in the atmospheric geosciences is small, but indicates positive growth Job openings due to growth and replacement 2012-2022 Employ- ment change 2012 - 2022 Employment change 2012- 2022 Year 2012 Year 2022 Occupation Title Education Atmospheric and space scientists Atmospheric, Earth, marine, and space teachers, faculty 11,100 12,200 1,100 10.0% 3,800 B.S. Ph.D. or professional degree 13,200 14,700 1,500 11.4% 3,500 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://data.bls.gov/projections/occupationProj air planet people NCAR UCAR UCAR Center for Science Education
What does the gap in skills look like? Technical Skills Computer programming Math Leadership skills Taking initiative Supporting team Mentoring others Project management Communication Skills Writing papers, proposals Oral presentations Email professional & clear Meetings purposeful, respectful, being prepared air planet people NCAR UCAR UCAR Center for Science Education
What do employers and potential graduate advisors look for? To find out, we plan to: 1. Survey graduate schools & employers on skills sought - and perceived as lacking - in graduates and postgrads 2. Identify creative solutions 3. Provide UCAR members with survey results & suggestions air planet people NCAR UCAR UCAR Center for Science Education
What are some innovative ways to close the skills gap and improve access? Update departmental degree requirements Incorporate real research into courses Permit students to develop skills online for credit Transcend bricks and mortar students without borders Encourage internships & work opportunities air planet people NCAR UCAR UCAR Center for Science Education
