How do we reverse the decade-long decline in STEM graduation rates and address the aging workforce in the aerospace sector? As we gather to shape the next 5 years of academic research and STEM education in New Mexico, we’re tapping into the power of collaboration—with the support of NASA and the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium representing industry, research, educators, legislators, and academia throughout the state. Our goal is not just to advance spaceflight research but to build a robust pipeline of skilled aerospace professionals and alleviate industry bottlenecks. Today’s discussions have set a strong foundation, and we continue our mission tomorrow. Your perspective is crucial: What initiatives do you think should be our focus to drive change and empower our communities? #Innovation #SpaceTech #NASA #Education #Research #PathfinderProject #NewMexico
Growing up in my birth place of Silver City, NM, ignited my passion for STEM from an early age. Whether I was sketching machinery schematics, constructing a K'nex clock, or testing homemade inventions like parachutes, innovation was always at the forefront. Thanks to the state's dual enrollment program, I made significant progress towards my Bachelor's degree but there was limited IT courses available at the time, and my love for technology remained steadfast. Due to the lack of opportunities and awareness for IT learning opportunities by 12th grade the idea of college was daunting and felt unattainable, which dampened my enthusiasm for pursuing a STEM career. I strongly advocate for bridging the gap between students and STEM professionals. While funding for STEM programs may see increases, the willingness and funding of professionals to share their time, knowledge, and experiences with students can profoundly impact inspiring the next generation. As a student, I longed for the opportunity to learn directly from professionals, to hear their stories, and to realize that a future in STEM was within reach.
Bring back the Education Outreach Program. Go into schools and do hands-on experiments. Have educational tours that show off departments. Fuel the excitement for space exploration with real-life astronauts as guest speakers at schools. The excitement for seeing and hearing an astronaut is off the charts!
Providing more scholarships and information about potential career paths. A lot of students see the insurmountable debt and have no idea where these degrees are going to lead for them, never even knowing 80% of available jobs *are* jobs. This causes a lot of students to decide against a STEM career - why go into debt if you're not sure you can come out of it? Just my two cents as a recent STEM graduate.
We have to pay our teachers better. So they don't depend on survival but are focused on being creative & having the energy to inspire. That's just a small start.
Start a program for STEM in Connecticut I guaranteed , you will find great talent we are a big hub for areospace!
CEO/Founder at American Institute of Nondestructive Testing | NDT Education Expert, Business Growth - Podcast Host - Real Estate Investor
6moI’d like to invite you to talk about an initiative I am working on with some other leaders in the Nondestructive Testing industry to promote NDT as a viable and exciting career.