Students, industry leaders, and educators offered multiple perspectives on the impact of STEM education, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the pipeline between schools and employment by connecting students with real-world industry career pathways.

Ernst is leading the National STEM Week Act with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to promote and encourage STEM education. This is critical to increasing the United States’ competitiveness in innovation and technology while addressing nationwide disparities in STEM education access and interest.

“We’ve always known that greatness stems from Iowans, and thanks to the leadership of Governor Reynolds, our state is at the forefront of STEM education,” said Senator Ernst. “In Iowa, we are fortunate to see science, technology, engineering, and math everywhere – from the classroom or the lab to the field or assembly line and beyond. STEM skills are key to fostering a growing and innovative economy, and I’m excited to be increasing access to these opportunities for students across our nation to prepare them for the workforce of tomorrow.”

“To remain competitive in the 21st-century economy, we need modern STEM education to bolster innovation and equip our students for success in high-tech, good-paying jobs,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation will establish a National STEM Week to promote access to and increase interest in STEM education throughout our country.”

“COSI has long championed the power of STEM learning to transform lives and communities. More than just sparking interest in science, we need to connect students with the industries that define our economy, from sustainable food production to cutting-edge agricultural technologies,” said Dr. Frederic Bertley, President and CEO, COSI. “Co-developing this national initiative ensures that students have access to meaningful STEM experiences that prepare them for in-demand careers, strengthening both the American workforce and industry innovation.”

“As a global ingredient manufacturer founded by science innovations, Kemin has been able to transform the quality of life for animals, humans, and pets around the world with our products thanks to our team of scientists, engineers, and experts in the STEM field,” said Dr. Chris Nelson, President and CEO, Kemin Industries. “We’re proud to support public and private partners in helping to reinforce the importance of STEM education in agriculture, which in turn fosters a strong STEM workforce here in Iowa and across the United States. We must do everything we can to empower and inspire young minds for generations to come.”

The National STEM Week Act will:

• Increase STEM engagement by involving students in hands-on STEM activities to increase interest and proficiency in STEM fields;
• Enhance collaboration with industry partners to provide real-world experience and mentorship;
• Encourage family and community involvement to enhance student understanding and retention; and
• Align, aggregate, and support individual state efforts and enable the nation to celebrate STEM efforts.

Background: 

Ernst regularly meets with Iowa students both in Iowa and Washington, D.C. As a former 4-H member who grew up walking beans and feeding hogs on her family farm in southwest Iowa, she has experienced firsthand the valuable educational experiences and leadership opportunities student programs focused on STEM offer.