Improve math and science standards for 21st century education

In the United States, almost 30 percent of people holding engineering and sciences degrees are 50 years or older and will soon retire. Americans now pursuing engineering degrees have decreased 20 percent since 1985. In contrast, students seeking engineering degrees in China and India have doubled since 2005. I see firsthand education affecting my profession, our ability to hire qualified staff and our country’s ability to compete in the global market place.

I applaud Missoula County Public School’s http://www.mcps.k12.mt.us and the University of Montana’s http://www.umt.edu Pre-K-20 Education Initiative. This joint effort between the private sector and educational system helps define important improvements necessary to create a 21st century educational system in Montana.

As an engineer, I believe that fostering a career vision in young students and offering a practical path for achievement in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics is a key to our economic future. A clear path is needed for all students to achieve at their highest interest level and potential. We need to provide a seamless transition between Pre-K-12 education, the associate degree and the bachelor’s degree in arts or sciences. Breaking down the traditional institutional barriers that exist in education will allow all of our students to achieve at their own pace, remain in school and pursue advanced degrees.

Guest column by BRENT A. CAMPBELL

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