PRESS RELEASE: March 14, 2025
Peggy Chowning & Odyssey Crowell
Ecosystem Co-Leads
pchowning@mcwane.org; ocrowell@mcwane.org
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA – The Central 6 STEM Learning Ecosystem has been selected to join the Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative, a worldwide movement that brings together leaders from education, business, government, and community organizations to develop high-quality STEM learning opportunities. Through strategic partnerships, Central 6 STEM Ecosystem will create powerful STEM learning experiences that happen everywhere – in classrooms, after school programs, museums, businesses, and community spaces.
“While the Central 6 STEM Learning Ecosystem is still in the beginning stages, we realize that the need for impactful STEM learning opportunities is great. The team is working diligently to form core working groups and begin this important work in central Alabama,” said Peggy Chowning, VP of Education at McWane Science Center and Ecosystem Co-Lead.
About Central 6 STEM Learning Ecosystem
Central 6 STEM Learning Ecosystem is dedicated to fostering collaboration among multi-faceted community partners to offer meaningful STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) experiences for individuals of all backgrounds. The ecosystem places a special emphasis on increasing awareness of STEM fields and equipping individuals with the essential skills needed to thrive in Alabama’s 21st-century workforce. By bridging resources, opportunities, and knowledge, the Central 6 STEM Learning Ecosystem aims to empower individuals and cultivate a pipeline of talent that will contribute to the state’s economic and technological advancement. Through partnerships with schools, businesses, industries, and non-profits throughout the region, Central 6 STEM Ecosystem strives to increase awareness of STEM opportunities, identify STEM deserts, respond to local academic needs, and empower students and teachers through accessible pathways to STEM education and careers.
Serving Alabama’s Workforce Region 4, the Ecosystem has recently established a Steering Committee and received state funding to survey regional business and industry on workforce needs. Armed with this data, the Ecosystem can channel its resources to meet these critical needs.
The Central 6 STEM Learning Ecosystem Steering Committee
“We are excited to welcome Central 6 into our Initiative,” said Jenny Frank, director of the STEM Ecosystems Initiative. “Their unique approach and commitment to collaboration will strengthen our collective impact in expanding STEM opportunities for all.”
For more information about the Central STEM Ecosystems Initiative:
Peggy Chowning & Odyssey Crowell
Ecosystem Co-Leads
pchowning@mcwane.org; ocrowell@mcwane.org
About the Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative powered by TIES
The Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative unites diverse community partners—schools, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies—to create thriving STEM learning environments and develop a competitive workforce. With over 120 ecosystems across 43 states and 8 countries, the Initiative reaches approximately 42 million students worldwide. As the backbone organization, TIES facilitates collaboration and innovation through regular exchanges, professional development, and an annual convening. The Initiative’s effectiveness has been recognized by the U.S. Office of Science and Technology Policy and cited in the $52 billion CHIPS and Science Act as a proven strategy for creating equitable access to STEM education and career opportunities.
Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative:
www.stemecosystems.org
Jenny Frank, Director
jennyfrank@tiesteach.org
