Future Critical Issues and Problems Facing Technology and Engineering Education in the Commonwealth of Virginia

The word crisis is not always presented as having a negative connotation. John F. Kennedy once said, “When written in Chinese, the word “crisis” is composed of two characters - one represents danger and the other opportunity” (John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, 1959). Some may feel that the technology and engineering profession is in a crisis, but in the midst of this crisis, opportunities exist. As Sanders suggested, “A series of circumstances has once more created an opportunity for technology educators to develop and implement new integrative approaches to STEM education” (2009, p. 20). STEM education is just one of many potential technology and engineering education opportunities; however, concerns, as well as opportunities, must be identified and prioritized in order to ensure the profession correctly progresses into the future.