**2.3 STEM employability skills**

There is a distinct gap in skill levels between the competencies gained in STEM programs and what employers are seeking in new graduates as confirmed by human resource professionals [22]. To close the skills gap, several studies noted that employers should communicate their employability skill requirements to the HEI including soft skills, and the HEI should embed employability skills and careerpreparedness into the STEM curricula [23–25]. However, there are many other ways students can be prepared for the workforce. As noted in the prior learning with peers section, students learn how to develop problem-solving skills, analytical abilities, and soft skills during the group sessions. Likewise, students can seek career-related campus employment, internships, and research work with faculty in STEM laboratories.
