Promoting Stem in the Energy Regions: A Driver of Progress and Technological Transformation

Abstract In regions where the oil industry is dominant, such as around Vaca Muerta, encouraging young people to pursue STEM careers is crucial. Despite SPE global efforts, there is a critical need to locally promote STEM opportunities, as the new generations are not choosing these fields. The region faces a shortage of skilled workers, making it essential to inspire young people through real life examples. By providing information, resources, and role models, we can motivate them to pursue successful careers in energy and technology. SPE Patagonia has been going to local high schools every year for the last 4 years, giving a motivating talk about presenting opportunities as a motivator for pursuing STEM careers. The presentations will discuss what STEM careers are, where they can be studied locally, how they affect the energy sector, and scholarships that are available. Then students and professionals give uplifting testimony to persuade young viewers to enter these professions. They also stress the value of multidimensionality in career options. These kinds of efforts not only increase awareness of local opportunities where potential workers can learn about the energy industry's workforce needs, but they also illustrate the importance of technical education to ensure that the energy industry has a workforce to be had. The demand for engineering careers is growing within the energy industry, yet the number of students graduating per year is inadequate to fill the demand. Despite local initiatives to provide shorter technical programs, there is a clear absence of an intention to study these fields. That's why the STEM talks concentrate on anecdotes to debunk myths, answer questions, and relate to what is going on in the real world, which is more engaging for the students. We also know that the interest from schools in hosting our STEM talks is also a testament that these initiatives are filling a gap in the knowledge students need for future jobs in the energy industry. This sharp increase in student involvement, from approximately 100 now to over 600 in 2024, is evidence of the success of our work to connect to a wider audience. Participation in education fairs has enabled the promotion of career opportunities in the energy sector and therefore increased the profile. This work has been positively recognized by provincial educational authorities, who have expressed interest in implementing it on a broader and more systematic scale across the province. The outreach initiatives have achieved notable success, as reflected in the growing interest from schools and the substantial student participation in STEM talks. These efforts have gained support from the Provincial Education Council, highlighting the recognition of the importance of promoting STEM education. Additionally, these initiatives contribute to professional development practices, helping to prepare students for their transition into both higher education and the region's socio-economic workforce.