The Southeast Alabama STEM Learning Ecosystem was established in 2024 to enhance and expand STEM education and workforce development efforts across a 10-county region in southeast Alabama. Rather than creating new programs, the ecosystem focuses on increasing the reach of the many outstanding STEM initiatives already in place, ensuring that more students and educators can benefit from existing opportunities.

By bringing together educators, industry leaders, and community partners, Southeast Alabama STEM strengthens and improves current programs, working collaboratively to close skill gaps and align education with workforce needs. The ecosystem focuses on Bioscience, Engineering, Aviation, and Advanced Manufacturing, key industries that drive the region’s economy.

A core mission of Southeast Alabama STEM is to foster collaboration and innovation, ensuring that stakeholders who are passionate about improving STEM education and workforce readiness can work together effectively. By connecting schools, employers, and organizations, the ecosystem helps to enhance hands-on learning experiences, support professional development for educators, and create pathways for students to enter high-demand STEM careers.

Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to strengthening what already exists, Southeast Alabama STEM is shaping the future of STEM education and workforce development, driving economic growth, and ensuring long-term success for students and industries in the region.

Key Initiatives

• Expanding Access to STEM Opportunities
• Strengthening and scaling existing STEM programs to reach more students and educators across the 10-county region.
• Connecting schools with workforce development programs, internships, and hands-on learning experiences.
• Closing Skill Gaps & Aligning Education with Workforce Needs
• Partnering with local industries to ensure that STEM education aligns with the real-world skills needed in Bioscience, Engineering, Aviation, and Advanced Manufacturing.
• Providing educators with industry insights and professional development to enhance STEM curriculum.
• Enhancing STEM Learning Through Collaboration
• Building partnerships between schools, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to maximize impact.
• Encouraging cross-sector collaboration to improve career pathways and workforce readiness.
• Leveraging Technology & Innovation
• Utilizing virtual reality, simulation tools, and advanced manufacturing technologies to create immersive learning experiences.
• Supporting schools in integrating cutting-edge technology into STEM education.
• Supporting Educators & STEM Champions
• Offering professional development, mentorship, and resources to teachers and program leaders.
• Recognizing and celebrating STEM educators and industry mentors who play a key role in student success.
• Raising Awareness & Community Engagement
• Promoting STEM career pathways to students, parents, and the broader community.
• Hosting STEM events, career fairs, and outreach programs to increase participation and engagement.

Each of these initiatives helps strengthen what already exists, ensuring that STEM education and workforce development efforts in Southeast Alabama continue to grow and thrive. 🚀