STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) is the future of the U.S. economy and is the crucible of the jobs of tomorrow. Unfortunately, 76% of students ages 11 to 17 have no clue what engineers do, and 67% of American women were not encouraged as youth to pursue STEM careers. The 21st-century economy will require a workforce fluent in STEM. However, many cities in America are lagging in producing a STEM-educated workforce that will fill these jobs and drive important innovation. What’s more, Blacks or African Americans are severely under-represented with the lowest percentage of students earning STEM degrees of any demographic and across every discipline.
BrightPath STEAM Academy was launched in 2019 to help address these critical educational gaps that impact African American youth, their future and our national economy. We stand as a solution to the problem to increase Black/African American representation and exposure to STEAM for educational equality. Our approach inspires and opens up Black/African American youth to possibilities that have historically seemed unattainable for many. We engage and draw upon the support of highly skilled STEAM educators, corporations, local businesses, universities, the faith-based community and individual volunteers to advance the cause.
Founded by a Black/African American chemical engineer, science enthusiast, and co-inventor of various medicines (Marcia Brown-Rayford), BrightPath is sure to wow young STEAMERs with a fun and creative way to view the world using everyday items aided by computers and other technology. As a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Marcia and her inspiring team of educators and facilitators help revolutionize innovative scientific, technical and artistic learning. Leveraging her Wharton MBAs and business prowess, Marcia and her power team also teach STEAMERs to fuel scientific, technological, and artistic expression with an entrepreneurial vision — a winning combination for our up-and-coming world changers.
Welcome to BrightPath STEAM Academy!
July 2020 BrightPath STEAM Summer Academy
