U.S. students are lagging in the core subjects of science, technology, engineering, and math. Achievement scores in these areas have stagnated or declined in recent years. Meanwhile, students in other countries such as Singapore, Japan, and Finland are faring much better.

Part of the problem is how STEM is taught. Too many classes rely on memorization rather than real-world problem-solving, which makes these subjects seem boring or incomprehensible. Schools with fewer resources often lack the newest technology, science labs, or teachers who specialize in the STEM fields. When these resources are lacking, it’s difficult for students to get excited about these subjects. This may make students who are naturally curious about science or math lose interest simply because they are never getting a chance to see how these skills can be put into practice.

STEM careers are also not always something that sounds exciting. Necessary jobs, such as engineering, computer science, or biotechnology, do not always show students where they can make a difference using their creativity. In addition, students are often under pressure for excellent performance in standardized tests, which makes them even more reluctant to try something new or think creatively. A number of students report feelings of stress and being overwhelmed, while others conclude that STEM is “too hard,” adding to the problem.

These challenges are now appearing in the workforce. U.S. companies can’t find enough workers qualified in STEM fields. Millions of jobs could go unfilled in the next decade alone, which will entail slower innovation and less economic growth. Even worse, some work is already being offshored to countries whose graduates are better prepared for a STEM career. Without enough STEM professionals, the country would struggle to create new technologies, develop clean energy solutions, and even compete in industries like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

Other countries, such as South Korea and Germany, introduce students to hands-on learning and mentorship early in their education process. In contrast, many U.S. students do not get to see the advanced concepts in STEM disciplines until high school, making it difficult for them to pick a STEM career later on. Other countries promotes other programs to make STEM enjoyable and engaging at a young age, such as science fairs, coding clubs, and robotics competitions, which help students get a sense of their interests outside the classroom.

If this remains the current trend, America risks losing its competitive edge in innovation and technology—but that scenario can be different. Schools can invest in better teacher training, updated technology, and real-world projects. Inspiring STEM role models can also expose students to the possibilities. Communities, parents, and students all have a part to play. Helping to spur curiosity, reinforcing learning outside the classroom, and showcasing how STEM can be exciting and creative may help more young people see themselves in these careers. After all, the future depends on the choices students make today. Getting them interested in the field of STEM now could mean the inventions and solutions of tomorrow. If more students start exploring science and technology, the U.S. can remain a leader in innovation, continuing to solve the big challenges of the future.