So, what is STEM outreach?

Well, let’s break it down.

STEM is an acronym which stands for science, technology, engineering, and math.

OUTREACH is defined as “to reach further then”. But, in the context of the work that we do, which is community outreach, outreach is really the activity of providing a service to any population that might not otherwise have access to that service.

We hear from a lot of our STEM ambassadors that they are motivated to do STEM outreach because it’s something they never experienced when they were young. They want to create the experiences for the next generation that they never had.

Now, do you have to have a formal engagement where you plan ahead and book time with a teacher and visit a classroom with 25 energetic students?

Or, could STEM outreach just be sharing your experiences, your story, your thoughts and advice with your niece, nephew or neighbor?

For us, STEM outreach is really about influence and impact.

The techniques and tools that we use use to create positive STEM experiences will work just as well for one person as they do for an entire class.

The next time you find yourself having a conversation with a young person remember that you’re doing STEM outreach.

You are influencing their future by sharing your experiences today.