The following is a summary of a previously recorded interview. To hear the complete segment, click the audio above.
Are there important jobs going begging in Michigan?
Jobs that fall under the umbrella of STEM jobs---the science, technology, engineering and mathematics based jobs?
It’s accepted virtually everywhere that STEM jobs are crucial for innovation and economic growth.
A major study in 2011 by Georgetown University examined the importance of these STEM jobs.
It projects that by 2018, there will be 2.4 million job openings for workers with STEM degrees, and predicts that American businesses won’t be able to fill these openings with U.S. graduates alone.
Susan Im is an immigration attorney in Grand Rapids and her recent piece in the Grand Rapids Business Journal asked the question “Do immigration barriers stifle entrepreneurship and our vital STEM workforce?”
Im thinks one important way to help fill these jobs in engineering, math, computer science, design, building & construction, physical sciences and more is to lower the barriers keeping immigrants with this vital STEM talent from coming here.
Cyndy spoke with her today.
