STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) has been a powerful engine of prosperity in the US since World War II. Currently, American students' performances and enthusiasm in STEM education are inadequate for the US to maintain its leadership in STEM professions unless the government takes more actions to motivate a new generation of US students towards STEM careers. Despite of coherent actions taken by the government and various institutions, the US cannot ensure the production of a sufficient number of experts in STEM fields to meet its national and global needs. The current situation is that the US is largely dependent on the foreign-born STEM workforce. This paper starts with a deeper look at the participation rate of American students in STEM careers and the basis of career choices by the US students. The discussion is driven by barriers and misconceptions about STEM education. It concludes with recommendations for how to motivate more US students to pursue STEM careers. (Contains 1 figure.)