Multiple industries rely on satellite technology for information, communication, and data transfers. Weather forecasting and storm tracking have become more accurate thanks to satellite images. Banking uses satellite technology to connect remote branches and ATMs to central offices, while utility companies rely on satellite communication to link energy grids for the most efficient use of power. Defense, civil services, entertainment, agriculture, and mining increasingly use satellite connectivity to reach remote locations or transmit information globally.
STEM careers are vital for the future of satellite engineering. STEM (short for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education trains people for all levels of satellite technology, including manufacturing telecommunications components, designing new satellite hardware, calculating orbital trajectories, and relaying information from the ground to orbiting satellites. The future of technology in space relies on strengthening STEM education and encouraging students to pursue careers in the telecommunications and space industries.
The Growing Demand for Satellite Technology
Satellite technology has revolutionized the telecommunications industry over the last few years.
Looking forward, the global satellite manufacturing market will increase by a compound annual growth rate of 15.4% by 2030, with increased demand for satellite internet, in-orbit satellite repair and maintenance, satellite imaging, and micro-launch technology playing a significant role in sector growth. Current satellite applications, including communication, navigation, defense, and earth observation, will continue to grow in popularity. Future applications include space-based solar power collection, air traffic management, space debris collection, and near-earth satellite monitoring.
The technology required to meet these needs includes the development of ion thrusters, artificial intelligence for use in satellite data processing, and autonomous satellite systems. These technologies open up new STEM careers and increase the demand for skilled professionals in the satellite industry.
The Role of STEM Education in Satellite Technology
STEM education directly relates to space technology. Physics, for instance, is vital for understanding orbital mechanics. Engineering and materials science are needed to design working satellites capable of handling extreme space environments. Software engineering, electronics, mathematics, and more all play a role in developing, launching, and maintaining a functioning satellite.
The skills needed to work in the satellite industry take time to develop. A solid STEM education from early education through college is necessary, with an emphasis on the innovative thinking and creative problem-solving required for satellite STEM careers.
Bridging the Skills Gap
According to the 2023 Space Sector Skills Survey, the satellite industry faces serious skill gaps throughout its workforce. Software and data skills, in particular, are in high demand, especially in machine learning and artificial intelligence. Other skill gaps reported within the industry include CAD skills, systems engineering, electronics design, aero/mechanical design, and materials selection.
These skill gaps reflect the competition across multiple industries for people with STEM educations, a competition worsened by an overall shortage of skilled professionals and the need for more young people to choose STEM careers.
In response, educational programs encouraging interest in STEM education and satellite technology are rising. Examples include NASA’s Next Gen STEM K-12 program, CubeSat Programs, and Hughesnet's partnership with the National 4-H Council to inspire students to explore STEM interests.
Encouraging Diversity in STEM
Women and ethnic minorities have traditionally lacked widespread representation in STEM careers, and the National Science Board reports that the STEM workforce remains predominantly male (72%) and white (89%). By encouraging diversity in STEM education, the satellite industry hopes to open the field to a previously untapped resource of potential innovators who could contribute to technology in space.
Efforts to make STEM curricula more inclusive at all levels of education are underway, including promoting more collaboration and connecting students with mentors within their field of study and organizations. Bridging the digital divide with rural internet access and digital literacy education allows rural and underserved students to explore STEM education and career opportunities. At the industry level, a focus on diversity training and transparent hiring practices aim to mitigate the conscious and unconscious biases that hinder a more diverse workplace.
The Future of Satellite Technology with Strong STEM Foundations
The support of a strong, STEM-educated workforce is essential for the future of satellite technology. The industry has grown significantly over the last few decades, with options like Hughesnet high-speed satellite internet now available to people living in remote locations. People rely on satellite technology for GPS navigation, storm watches, communication, and streaming entertainment. Who knows what the next generation of STEM-trained professionals will bring to the field?
