Workforce Development – STEM Initiatives (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)
STEMPower Results to Date
STEMPower, the Mid-Massachusetts STEM Pathways Initiative, works collaboratively with a broad cross-section of businesses, community-based organizations and education and training partners to reach its goal of increasing the pipeline of displaced workers, veterans, and disadvantaged youth into STEM careers. This program is focused primarily on Advanced Manufacturing, Biotechnology, Renewable Energy and Aerospace sectors.
People frequently ask what STEMPower has accomplished so far. Every quarter a report is submitted to USDOL that includes that information, and I’d like to share that with you. This information covers our history from start-up through the end of September 2010.
We have enrolled 278 people into the STEMPower program. We have provided another 1,311 with a STEM Careers Orientation. That means STEM is on their radar now and they are aware of the need for qualified workers and positive work outlook.
Of the 278 enrolled STEMPower participants, 206 have enrolled in STEM-related training and 174 have completed their training. Many are still in process. Of the 174 that have completed training, 150 have found jobs. The average wage is $19.26.
We have also provided 3,893 youth with a STEM awareness activity. These activities range from Career Fairs where STEM jobs and careers are featured and explained, to hands-on demonstration of CNC on MASSMEP’s Mobile Training Unit, to sustainable living demonstrations of the energy savings that LED lights offer over incandescent bulbs, and much more.
As you can see by these raw numbers, we’ve been very busy! Many participants have sent notes to the STEM coaches thanking them for their counseling, advice, and assistance in finding work. We share those stories on the www.stempower.org Home Page – just look for STEMPower Success Stories: In Your Own Words. Thanks to all who have built this program into a success!
To learn how to become involved in the program as an employer, mentor, advisory council member, or on STEMPower.org, contact STEMPower Coach Lisa Derby Oden at [email protected] . Mid-Massachusetts STEM Pathways Initiative is sponsored in part by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. The program is an equal opportunity program.
