Over the past several years STEM has been a big topic of conversation in the education system.
STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
Individuals in STEM fields generally use their knowledge of these areas to try to understand how the world works and to solve problems, as described in this article by the STEM Education Coalition.
In recent years, variations in STEM have also included the Arts (STEAM) and the Arts and Reading (STREAM).
An article published in EntreEd in September 2016 said it best, “Students in STEM, STEAM or STREAM schools or classes are encouraged to fail forward and try new things and ideas, to invent, to learn and to challenge themselves.”
These concepts are at the very core of entrepreneurship. So, it makes a lot of sense that the two would be naturally complementary.
The Northeast Tennessee region is doing its part to encourage STEM education and entrepreneurship with opportunities for today’s youth popping up everywhere.
Recently, the 45th Annual Upper East Tennessee Science Fair took place at the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) D.P. Culp University Center.
“Three hundred twenty students from fourth- through eighth-grade participated in the fair from 42 schools throughout the upper east Tennessee region. Grand prize-winning projects explored topics including the aerodynamics of paper airplanes, optical illusions and how mass affects the generation of sound.” An excerpt from an article in the Johnson City Press stated.
In addition, Eastman Chemical Company, Microsoft Corporation, and Northeast State Community College recently hosted the DigiGirlz event at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education. Forty-three female students from local high schools participated in the event.
In an article from the Kingsport Times News, the author wrote, “The goal of DigiGirlz, a worldwide program started by Microsoft in 2000, is to introduce female high school students to potential careers in IT and related high-tech areas.”
And in yet another recent event, Cherokee High School raised over $1,500 this past week for the Robotics Team during a special event. The students were also able to expose “the community, and future students, to some of the STEM programs currently in progress,” mentioned in an article in the Kingsport Times News.
With the number and types of events happening in the region supporting STEM education, our students have more opportunities now than ever before to get involved. And for a chance to take those skills to create a business of their own one day to make a difference in the world.
Coming soon again by popular demand, Computer Aided Design (CAD) Camps!
- May 29 – June 2 at the Holston Business Development Center
- June 5 – June 9 at East Tennessee University (ETSU)
Follow us on Facebook for all the details on CAD Camps this summer and more exciting events happening with STEM Education and Entrepreneurship in Northeast TN!
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