10:40 AM - ROOM 207

STEM educators are the direct pathway to preparing the next generation of STEM professionals. In this session, we will explore what makes a STEM teacher highly effective and how an innovative teacher preparation program is preparing teachers to meet the needs and challenges facing our society. Learn about how this program currently works with research and industry partners and brainstorm areas for future collaborations.

10:40 AM - ROOM 209

Economic prosperity and innovation hinge on equipping the next generation with knowledge and skills to succeed in a global market. Unfortunately, many young innovators lack an understanding of intellectual property (IP) and entrepreneurship, limiting their ability to protect and commercialize from "concept to company."

This session introduces the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) EiPIC program, designed to bridge this gap by fostering awareness of the IP system in an engaging hands-on environment intended to motivate innovators in middle school, high school, college, and beyond. Participants will learn about the program's framework and see examples of how the program succeeds, both in the United States and internationally.

Senior Director, National and International STEAM Partnerships, COSI

10:40 AM - ROOM 211

This session is focused on what some may characterize as non-traditional STEM careers, ranging from healthcare to technology to other industries that are not commonly recognized as such. The goal is for attendants to learn cohesive ways to present STEM careers (and the paths to achieving those careers) for students of all ages. These careers are not found within linear confines but are characterized by skills (hard and soft), networking, and academic trajectories.

10:40 AM - ROOM 213

Ready to "STEM Success"? Join us for an exciting journey into building a dynamic STEM workforce and mentorship program for underrepresented students, powered by corporate partnerships! In this session, we’ll uncover the secrets behind the Biomedical Sciences Enrichment Program, backed by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and show you how to create opportunities that truly make a difference.

We’ll share how you can team up with corporate partners to provide students with more than just support—think mentorship, real-world experience, and the career capital that sets them up for success in STEM fields. Plus, we’ll talk about how to shake up the status quo, breaking down barriers and building a diverse, empowered STEM workforce ready to take on the future.

Perfect for educators, nonprofit leaders, STEM professionals, industry leaders, and corporate movers, this session is packed with actionable tips and fresh ideas to help you create your own winning STEM programs. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of the future of STEM—come see how you can make it happen! 

Program Director and Co-Founder, Biomedical Sciences Enrichment Program, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

Professor, Dean, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

10:40 AM - Ballroom

This interactive session will engage participants in learning about key aspects to consider when evaluating STEM investments (e.g., programs, partnerships, networks, workforce development). The STEM Evaluation Planning Tool will be shared, and participants will utilize it during the session to brainstorm potential approaches that could be used to assess the impact of their STEM investments in the short and long term.