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Career Choices for STEM Major Graduates

Careers in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and math) are varied and can be found in nearly every sector of the economy, from medicine and technology to education and research. Scientists perform many tasks related to research, education, and implementation of scientific practices. There is a slight difference between scientist and researcher, although they may have similar degrees and work in similar fields. Engineers use science and math to create safer, more efficient, and better-functioning products and buildings.
 
Snake Milker
Snake milkers extract venom from snakes. This is the main ingredient in the production of antivenom, the medicine that is used to treat snakebite victims. It is also used as an ingredient in drugs to treat blood clots and high blood pressure. Snake milkers often work in special facilities where hundreds of snakes are housed, in zoos, or in laboratories. They milk the snakes by holding their heads and allowing them to bite a membrane stretched over a cup or vial. The venom runs down into the jar and is collected and processed for shipping. This is a job best for those who love snakes and are not scared to work with dangerous animals!
 
Volcanologist
Volcanology is the study of volcanoes. Volcanologists come from many different science backgrounds, including geology, geochemistry, physics, and mathematics. Most volcanologists have graduate degrees and have a high level of computer and technology training as well. If you want to spend a lot of time in the field performing research, as well as time using technology and traveling to remote places, you might enjoy a career as a volcanologist.
 
Pyrotechnic Engineer
Pyrotechnic engineers are people who design and execute fireworks displays. They also plan and execute explosive scenes for movies and television. Pyrotechnic engineers are responsible for following safety guidelines while setting up and performing displays, as well as deciding what techniques and products to use. Engineering graduates who are interested in fire or looking for an exciting and interesting career might enjoy being a pyrotechnic engineer.
 
Theme Park Engineer
Theme park engineers work together to design parks all the way from the beginning of large-scale plans to the structure of individual rides and buildings. Engineers from a variety of backgrounds and specialties are required to build a complex theme park, including electrical, mechanical, audio/visual, industrial, and structural engineers. Quality control and computer specialists are also needed, and these professionals all work together to create a park.
 
Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear engineers work with nuclear energy programs to develop and build nuclear facilities, run them, and research as needed. They may also work with waste and plan projects in medicine using radioactive materials. These engineers are responsible for establishing safety protocols and making sure the facilities they operate are following all standards and directives. Most nuclear engineers need at least a bachelor’s degree to get a job in this field.
 
Technical Writer
Technical writers work for textbook publishers, manufacturers, and educational companies to write difficult or complicated topics. Technical writers have to be skilled at using language and communicating complex ideas, while also having a thorough understanding of the science they are writing about. This combination can be hard to find, so if you are skilled and educated in these areas, this may be a great career choice for you.
 
Technical Illustrator
Similar to the technical writing career, technical artists and illustrators draw the pictures needed by textbook companies, universities, and other scientific institutions. They are also needed for instruction manuals and product assembly guides. Technical illustrators have to be skilled at making precise and understandable drawings that can be used to teach people. People in this career have to be excellent artists as well as creative, have an understanding of the visual nature of learning, and have an understanding of the discipline they’re working with.
 
Bakery or Other Food Science
Food scientists study the cooking, processing, and degeneration of food. They try to make food taste better and be more nutritious and work with governments and food production companies. In the bakery sector, scientists also study the chemistry of baked goods and how the ingredients interact. Food scientists usually have graduate degrees and are expected to have high-quality training and experience.
 
Fire Engineer
Fire engineers work with cities, other government agencies, and construction companies to design safer buildings and systems. They work with fire protection companies to plan, design, and install fire suppression systems in buildings and also make sure public transportation such as airplanes and subway systems are safe and protected. Fire engineers often have degrees directly related to fire science and study how fire works as well as how different materials burn. They often work directly with firefighting agencies, but also work for city planning departments, fire suppression companies, and other organizations. Many companies and organizations prefer employees who have actual firefighting experience and many engineers started their careers as firefighters.