GEOSCIENCE CAREER PATHWAYS AND THE BRIDGE AND EARTH SCIENCE TRAINING PROGRAM

Projections suggest there will be a significant deficit in the number of geoscience professionals by 2026 in the state of Texas. Earth science courses are not required for graduation in Texas high schools, a clear career pathway is lacking, and there is very little to no resources for promoting geoscience careers. Consequently, incoming student knowledge and interest in pursuing geoscience careers is limited. Therefore, Texas presents a unique opportunity to study behavior and attitudes related to geoscience careers and STEM identity. The Bridge and Earth Science Training (BEST) Program, at MSU Texas, aims to promote effective pathways to a geoscience degree and career through the Program’s Theory of Change. The premise is that novel, authentic, career-relevant geoscience experiences will increase the students desire to pursue degrees and geoscience careers. The BEST program has three objectives: establish connections and infrastructure to support students as they transfer from high school to college, expose students to career opportunities and provide information about professional geoscientists in society, and develop student interest and understanding of geoscience careers. Through these objectives, the BEST program will test the Theory of Change and track student retention and interest. The cohort of BEST scholars will engage in a summer camp, undergraduate research, and professional socialization as a means to identify typical paths students take to develop a geoscience STEM identity. Preliminary results from the first year survey suggest significant pre- and post-camp increases in aptitude & skill, competence beliefs, motivation & STEM identity, geoscience knowledge, and career interest.