Key Programs

Community Served: Alabama Workforce Region 6 (Southeast Alabama)

Learners Served: 1000+ learners; elementary, middle school, high school, post-secondary, and adult learners.

Types of Learner Programs: Curriculum; In-school programs; Afterschool programs; Summer school programs; Internships; Work-based learning programs; Career & Technical Education (CTE); Pre-College STEM programs; Technical training & certification; Workforce skills & development; Apprentice programs; Degree programs; Coaching or Mentoring Programs.

Types of Educator Programs: 100+ Educators; Professional Development; Training; Online courses; Resources (equipment, kits, etc.); Virtual Learning Communities; Curriculum Support and Resources; Coaching or Mentoring Programs; Externships; Industry-Education Partnerships; Research Experiences; Conference/Networking Opportunities; Technology Integration Support

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.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

The Southeast Alabama STEM Learning Ecosystem takes a collaborative and strategic approach to developing future-ready skills and supporting workforce development by aligning education with industry needs. Rather than creating new programs, the ecosystem strengthens and expands existing STEM initiatives, ensuring that students gain the skills necessary for high-demand careers in Bioscience, Engineering, Aviation, and Advanced Manufacturing.

A key focus is closing skill gaps by bringing together educators, employers, and community partners to enhance learning experiences. By integrating hands-on training, work-based learning opportunities, and emerging technologies, the ecosystem ensures that students are prepared for the evolving job market. Programs such as internships, apprenticeships, industry tours, and mentorships connect students directly with professionals, helping them understand real-world applications of STEM.

To further align education with workforce needs, Southeast Alabama STEM is now partnering with other STEM ecosystems across Alabama on a major survey campaign targeting businesses, managers, and HR professionals. This initiative seeks to identify the most critical skills employers need in new hires—specifically, the skills that high school and college graduates are currently lacking. The goal is to provide actionable insights for educators, helping them expand or refine curriculum to ensure students are better prepared for the workforce.

The ecosystem also supports educators by providing professional development, industry partnerships, and access to cutting-edge tools like virtual reality and advanced manufacturing simulations. This ensures that teachers can equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for today’s workforce.

Through this integrated and partnership-driven approach, Southeast Alabama STEM is building a pipeline of skilled workers, driving economic growth, and ensuring that students are future-ready for success in southeast Alabama’s workforce.