This indicator represents the extent to which a state’s workforce is employed in STEM middle-skill occupations. Middle-skill occupations require considerable STEM skills and expertise but do not typically require a bachelor’s degree for entry. These positions are primarily in the areas of construction trades, installation, maintenance, and production. STEM middle-skill occupations include technical writers, electricians, roofers, iron and steel workers, audiovisual equipment installers and repairers, aircraft mechanics, machinists, vehicle mechanics, and other skilled trade workers.

Data on STEM middle-skill occupations and total occupations come from the Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS), the largest household survey in the United States, with a sample size of about 3.5 million addresses. The ACS collects information on an annual basis.

Data source: Census Bureau, special tabulations of the American Community Survey.