Newswise — For years the U.S. Army has worked to entice America’s youth to develop interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Under a $17.2 million grant, JETS will serve as one of the partner’s to Virginia Tech to determine which programs work best not only in training teachers but also for students from fifth grade up.
As part of its grant responsibilities, JETS will continue the coordination of UNITE, an intensive summer program focused on connecting minority students to STEM subjects and careers. Students attend four to six week courses that closely parallel first- year university engineering programs. Through academic classes, hands-on activities and team-based learning, the participants explore the connections between math and science to real-world applications.
Workforce concerns rise from a projected shortfall in scientists and engineers and the Army Educational Outreach Program piques student interest early, enticing more college students to choose STEM disciplines. "Our nation's economic security is directly tied to the quality of STEM education our young students receive. As responsible stakeholders to our nation's security, the Army has long engaged in STEM education for young Americans. With technical experts from academia, industry and government, this cooperative agreement lays the foundation that ties together the crucial elements needed for a long term strategy to engage America's youth in STEM and to produce globally competitive technical talent", said Mr. Jeff Singleton, Acting Director for Research and Technology, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisitions, Logistics & Technology.
“JETS is proud to continue its relationship with the U.S. Army and become part of a broader initiative under this grant. Bringing the expertise of partners involved, under the leadership of Virginia Tech will create a larger, more profound impact on students and educators,” says Leann Yoder, executive director at JETS.
In addition to JETS, partners for the collaborative grant include:
The University of New Hampshire's Leitzel Center, which operates a strong Teach-the-Teacher program and other STEM initiatives
George Washington University, which will have responsibility for four STEM programs including math-and-science internships in Army laboratories for students in grades seven to 12
Academy of Applied Science, which will be responsible for four STEM programs including the Junior Science & Humanities SymposiumNortheast Sustainable Energy Association, which runs the Junior Solar SprintUnder Virginia Tech's share of the grant money, at least three full-time Blacksburg-based staff members will be hired, including a project director.
About JETS
JETS is a national non-profit education organization dedicated to promoting engineering and helping students discover their potential for the profession.
A solid framework of high school educators, corporations, professional organizations and universities incorporate JETS pre-college engineering programs in local communities throughout the United States. Employing a unique and innovative approach—Explore, Assess, Experience—thousands of diverse students are enticed to pursue engineering majors and careers each year. Learn more at www.jets.org.
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