Generally the justification for that is "I'll make you more money, either in the short run or in the long run."
Somehow, this is the only justification we can get anyone to agree on in the modern world. Should we educate kids? "Sure, as long as its STEM so they can be good taxpayers."
Come to think of it, this is also often the justification for art. Should I buy this piece? "Of course, it will gain in value"
I would actually argue that STEM education is generally harmful in that it acts like it's the only thing important. Honestly, engineering and technology is mainly made difficult by engineers themselves, who have little influence from other fields.
Somehow, this is the only justification we can get anyone to agree on in the modern world. Should we educate kids? "Sure, as long as its STEM so they can be good taxpayers."
Come to think of it, this is also often the justification for art. Should I buy this piece? "Of course, it will gain in value"