What is STEM?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, but EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction focuses not only on what people can learn, but also on what they can do and become through STEM. The EIT STEM Competence Framework underpins this approach, viewing STEM competence not simply in terms of technical knowledge, but also in terms of the capabilities that enable people to apply knowledge, solve problems, experiment, design and address real-world challenges. These capabilities span three interconnected dimensions:

The three dimensions of STEM capability

EIT STEM Competence Framework defines STEM capability across three complementary dimensions:

Conceptual Foundations (Know)
The technical knowledge, scientific principles and disciplinary understanding at the core of STEM.

Procedural Application (Do)
The ability to apply that knowledge in practice, through problem-solving, design and experimentation.

Innovation Mindset (Become)
The curiosity, resilience, ethical judgement and human-centred thinking – including entrepreneurial thinking – that turn ideas into real-world impact.

Together, these dimensions make for a more relevant definition that better reflects the realities of contemporary STEM education, innovation and careers.

The subject areas of the Initiative

Alongside this competence framework, the Initiative uses the International Standard Classification of Education – Fields of Education and Training (ISCED-F) to classify STEM subject areas:

• Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics (ISCED-F 05)
• Information and Communication Technologies (ISCED-F 06)
• Engineering, Manufacturing and Construction (ISCED-F 07)

The Initiative’s scope also extends to interdisciplinary areas that span across these fields, reflecting how modern STEM challenges rarely sit within a single discipline. Together, the ISCED-F fields provide the formal subject classification, while the competence framework provides the broader understanding of what STEM capability means.