Education Matters

The world around us is constantly changing and so is the workforce. It is imperative that youth are afforded opportunities to learn by doing, build skills, connect with mentors and prepare for the jobs of tomorrow. Today, STEM jobs are driving global economic growth, and youth nationwide are getting opportunities to develop an interest in science and gain STEM-related skills. At the North Carolina Center for Afterschool Program’s annual Synergy Conference, we were able to begin this conversation with the STEM Coalition Kickoff Panel. In this two part series, we will continue to discuss the importance of investing in STEM for youth as early as Kindergarten, developing core skills necessary for STEM career pathways, and the impact of STEM on the lives of youth and young adults. Guests: Alfred Mays, Senior Program Officer of the Burroughs Wellcome Fund Ron Ottinger, Executive Director of STEM Next Khalia Braswell, Founder and CEO of INTech Camp for Girls