INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK and Project Lead The Way (PLTW) are collaborating to provide Central Indiana students with access to more science, technology, engineering, and math experiences through the newly established Indy STEM Alliance.
In addition to working with PLTW, Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK will cultivate partnerships with local businesses, other Indiana universities and nonprofit organizations, and lean on the expertise of faculty and staff of the recently launched E. S. Witchger School of Engineering and the College of Arts & Sciences to provide K-12 students meaningful experiences in the STEM field.
“There is a growing need for more individuals to pursue a career in the science, technology, engineering, and math fields,” said Binh Tran, Ph.D., Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK chief academic officer and founding dean of the E. S. School of Engineering. “The partnership between Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK and PLTW creates a strong foundation to grow students’ exposure to STEM experiences and better prepare them to pursue a career in these high-demand fields.”
Pre-K-12 schools will have access to PLTW courses and materials, high-quality STEM support, and hands-on learning opportunities with local businesses through the Indy STEM Alliance.
PLTW is working across the country utilizing a community approach to STEM learning that is strategically connected to a network of industry partners and resources. The Indy STEM Alliance joins the nationally recognized Kansas City STEM Alliance, STEMSTL in Saint Louis, Missouri, and Grenada STEM Alliance in Grenada, Mississippi.
"PLTW is proud to partner with Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK as the Indy STEM Alliance is unveiled,” said Martha McCabe, senior vice president of community partnerships at PLTW. “It is important for our young people to see how STEM is integrated into everything we see and do as we help them develop skills, encourage persistence, and build confidence. This is an exciting time as we continue building robust STEM ecosystems across the United States."
The Indy STEM Alliance will be housed within the Center for Vibrant Schools, which was launched by Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK in 2021. Carrie Bruns, who previously served as a literacy project manager within the Center for Vibrant Schools, will oversee the Indy STEM Alliance as its executive director.