Maybe it's a similar kind of trend where women in western countries prefer non-STEM related fields on average as they have access to an abundance of more attractive possibilities. It's a sign of social progress, as twisted as it seems. Math is hard, people avoid it when they feel they can.

Not sure what you mean by this. I'd say the US way of teaching in STEM prioritizes solving problems, which is an excellent way to do it, and exactly what an entrepreneur or researcher most needs from school. School systems in other countries are far worse about this, basing school on rote practice and memorization.

Though also class projects strike me as a good way to encourage exploration and creativity, and seems to be something emphasized much more in the US versus other countries in my experience.

Most of the difference between a Sr engineer vs Staff/Sr staff/Mgr is all social skills. Its not just what you get done, but how you get it done and how you leverage other people that matters. Social skills are absolutely vital to climb the engineering career ladder.