In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education cannot be overstated. Elementary and middle schools especially play a crucial role in nurturing young minds and preparing our children for the challenges of tomorrow. To help in this mission, BTES and TVA have been supporting STEM education initiatives to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators.
BTES CEO Clayton Dowell explains, “By investing in STEM education programs, BTES and TVA are helping students develop critical thinking skills, foster creativity, and cultivate a passion for learning. Through hands-on activities, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, students can gain valuable insights into the world of science and technology, sparking an interest that could lead to fulfilling careers in STEM fields such as electrical engineering, linework, and cybersecurity.”
BTES is involved in several on-going projects to promote STEM education.
“BTES has held an annual Teacher Industry Day for more than 30 years to showcase the STEM skills needed in local jobs, sponsored local robotics teams and competitions to grow students’ interest in STEM-related fields, and supported work-based learning opportunities,” said Dowell.
To further support STEM projects, Bristol Tennessee High School, Sullivan Central Middle School, Sullivan East Middle School, and West Ridge High School were recently awarded grants from TVA, in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc., a TVA retiree organization, to develop STEM education programs for students that will inspire interest in STEM-related fields.
“TVA is committed to supporting schools and educators who are inspiring an interest in STEM education in students across the Valley, as we know our young people will design and build the energy systems of the future,” said Jeannette Mills, TVA executive vice president and chief external relations officer. “Providing resources and access to STEM education is key to inspiring innovation and we’re proud to contribute to the next generation’s visionaries.”
TVA, in partnership with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, has also created STEM centers at 27 locations in underserved communities throughout TVA's seven-state region, including a new center at the Boys & Girls Club of the Mountain Empire at Bluff City Elementary School. The STEM centers provide hands-on learning opportunities as well as access to curriculum plans to complement TVA’s and BTES’ workforce development initiatives.
Dowell continued, “These initiatives are helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications, showing students how their knowledge can make a tangible impact on their future and the future of our local communities.”
