STEM Innovation Initiatives
Helping students learn about and aspire to careers in high priority industries is an integral and critical aspect of nurturing and maintaining a talented and viable labor force for the future.
The CCEDC partners with middle and high schools, community colleges, universities and companies to deliver employer-led career exploration opportunities for growing the “pipeline” of talented graduates in order to keep intellectual talent employed here in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
These efforts are exemplified by the following programs that are coordinated by our Industry Partnerships and volunteers from academia and the private sector:
- Girl’s Exploring Tomorrow’s Technology – inspires girls in grades 5-10 to learn about careers that utilize technology.
- What’s So Cool About Manufacturing? – a student video contest for middle school students to learn more about careers in advanced manufacturing.
- Career Showcases – investigate traditional and alternative career paths in Agriculture, Energy, Healthcare, IT, and Manufacturing industries.
- Career Academies – extended career exploration opportunities for students in a variety of high priority industries.
- Techies Day – encourages high school students interested in technology to explore career options through visits to local technology-based employers.
All current career exploration programs qualify for helping schools achieve their state requirements for student experiences.
Partial funding for these programs has been received from the Chester County Workforce Development Board and the CCRES Foundation.
