Members of the Capitol College community presented at the 2011 League for Innovation’s STEMtech Conference held in Indianapolis from Oct. 2 to Oct. 5. The conference was designed to help increase student success in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and to explore the use of information technology to better serve students, campuses and communities.
Dr. Michael T. Wood, president, Adam Trice, director of foundation relations and adjunct professor, and Dr. Tara Ebersole, professor at the Community College of Baltimore County, presented a talk titled, “A Pathway to the Maryland STEM Workforce Program.” The presentation focused on the Maryland STEM Coalition for a Learn and Earn workforce development blueprint that incorporates deep learning and student engagement to meet employers’ needs for scalable and sustainable growth in cybersecurity, engineering and biotechnology.
Dr. Michael G. Gibbs, vice president for advancement, director of Capitol’s Center for Space Science Education and Public Outreach, and associate professor presented a poster titled, “Developing Leaders in STEM Fields,” along with Wood. This session highlighted Capitol’s outreach programs that work with area community colleges to encourage underrepresented first-generation, college-bound students to enter STEM careers. A synopsis of the 2011 spring workshops, including results, was also presented.
Capitol College is dedicated to promoting STEM learning in Maryland, and frequently hosts events or workshops to develop STEM interest. Last year’s Emerging and Developing STEM Leaders programs promoted STEM education among Capitol and local community college students. The annual Jump Start Juniors Expo brings local high school juniors to campus and exposes them to the possibilities of a future in STEM.
The 2011 STEMtech Conference continued Capitol’s participation in the national discussion with educators, industry leaders and others regarding the importance of increasing student access to STEM majors and careers.