HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The pandemic has made everything more difficult. Getting through college is already a challenge, and then trying to launch a career seems impossible.
Our WZDX News Reporter spoke with a career specialist at Alabama A&M University on what to do to be ready for the workforce, trends in employment, along with what those employers are looking for.
"STEM is actually taking off, and computer science probably more, just what's powering this whole conversation. I think we're going to continue to see an uptick in that space," says AAMU Career Development Services Director, Yvette Clayton.
Clayton says the STEM field is in high demand. However, Clayton says she's seeing less demand in other fields which include business and education. "In the space where more retail where customers are cutting back, we don't see as many employers in that space," says Clayton.
Teleworking is also expected. According to the U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics, workers with higher levels of education were more likely to have teleworked based on a survey last July.
"We're seeing more virtual internship opportunities, which is phenomenal because our students are kind of scattered. Some are here in Huntsville and others are taking their classes online," she says.
Clayton suggests having this skillset once you've entered the workforce. "The technical skills that they're bringing from the academic preparation is going to be good for two or three years," she says.
However, beyond technical skills Clayton says "soft" and "critical thinking" skills are needed too.
"Employers are expecting them to come in and even in the virtual space be accountable. Be a team player. Be able to relate and contribute and make an impact," says Clayton.
Tomorrow, Alabama A&M will begin "Career Preparedness Week" for students and say even this event is 95% virtual.