The strategic value of studying STEM in Spain: Data, challenges and opportunities
In an increasingly digitized economy, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) disciplines have become fundamental pillars for innovation, competitiveness and economic growth. However, Spain faces a worrying challenge: the shortage of qualified professionals in these areas. This is one of the main conclusions of the study“Benefits of studying STEM in Spain”, carried out by Telling Insights in collaboration with Comillas Pontifical University and promoted by Amazon Future Engenering and GeneraciónCode.org.
This report is based on a rigorous collection and analysis of quantitative data from official secondary sources (in particular surveys and official databases) and the statistical analysis of the data provided by these sources. Sul aims to demonstrate the individual, social and economic benefits of betting on STEM careers. In addition, it raises a clear warning: if decisive action is not taken to promote vocations in these areas, Spain risks falling behind in the global technological race.
STEM: beyond employability
The study highlights that STEM graduates not only enjoy better working conditions – such as higher insertion rates, more competitive wages and greater stability – but also have a significantly higher economic impact than other disciplines. Although they represent only 8% of the total number of people employed, they generate 13%of the Gross Value Added(GVA) of the country. This positive disproportion shows that the productivity of STEM profiles is remarkably high.
It is also pointed out that in the current labor market there is a strong demand for technological professionals. Despite this, in the 2022-2023 academic year only 17% of university graduates chose STEM studies,a percentage that is not only insufficient, but has decreased in recent years. The disconnect between education provision and real market needs results in a structural talent gap, which limits the development of key sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics or biotechnology.
The talent gap: a barrier to innovation
One of the most striking figures of the study is that, in 2023, Spain left more than 5,000 vacancies in STEM jobs unfilled. Particularly alarming is the case of artificial intelligence, where half of job offers were deserted due to a lack of qualified candidates. (Labour Market Report 2023, developed by Talent Hackers for IndesIA)
This shortage is not only a loss of opportunities for young people, but also a direct brake on the advancement of digitalisation in companies and institutions. According to Randstad data cited in the report, 2 out of 5 Spanish companies consider that the lack of STEM professionals is a significant obstacle to adopting emerging technologies such as automation or data analysis.
In addition, the mismatch between the speed of technological transformation and the pace of adaptation of the education system contributes to aggravating the problem. While R&D expenditure increased to 1.44% of GDP in 2022 (the highest year-on-year growth since 2008), it remains below the European average. Economic investment alone is not enough if it is not accompanied by qualified human capital.
Data matters: the importance of having evidence
One of the main successes of the report is its data-driven approach. Through statistics, comparisons and economic analysis, a strong narrative is built that demonstrates why STEM careers are strategic for both individuals and the country as a whole.
At a time when disinformation and stereotypes influence young people’s vocational choices, having access to reliable and contextualised data is crucial. Knowing that a STEM profile has greater employability and better working conditions than other options not only empowers students, but also guides families, teachers and policy makers.
This evidence-based approach also makes it possible to design more effective public policies, establish priorities in educational planning, and strengthen collaboration between training centers and technology companies.
A call to action: alliances and commitment
Several reports highlight the value of public-private partnerships in awakening scientific and technological vocations. Initiatives such as Amazon Future Engineer, which offers free resources and programming training for students and teachers, are examples of how the private sector can help bridge the gap.
Likewise, platforms such as GeneraciónCode.org work to bring technology closer to young people from vulnerable environments, reduce the gender gap in STEM classrooms and democratize access to professional opportunities in this field.
These actions, however, must be accompanied by a comprehensive national strategy that includes funding, curricular reform, teacher training and awareness-raising campaigns to show young people that science and technology not only have a future, but are the future.
Investing in talent: a need
The report “Benefits of studying STEM in Spain” provides a clear and worrying X-ray of the current situation, but also shows possible ways to reverse the trend. The lack of STEM talent is one of the country's great challenges in the next decade, but also an extraordinary opportunity to reinvent education, the economy and society.
Strong data, such as that provided by this study, is key to making informed decisions. Because behind each figure there is a possibility: employment, innovation, development. And because in the digital age, investing in STEM talent is not an option, it is a strategic necessity.
