Alabama STEM Learning Ecosystem [Statewide]

Alabama, United States

Alabama STEM Learning Ecosystem [Statewide] logo

About

The Alabama STEM Learning Ecosystem is the statewide resource to provide equitable, accessible, transdisciplinary STEM education experiences and opportunities for all Alabama learners through effective and trusting cross-sector partnerships to create a sustainable statewide culture of entrepreneurship, innovation, and a thriving economic future.

The Alabama STEM Council serves as the Ecosystem’s anchor organization. The Alabama STEM Council was created to advise on ways to improve STEM-related education, career awareness, and workforce development across the state. As the backbone of the Statewide Ecosystem, the STEM Council works to cultivate STEM education and deepen STEM Learning opportunities statewide by providing support, guidance, and resources.

Our Vision
Our vision is to unlock the STEM potential across every region of Alabama, achieved through collaborative efforts with stakeholders statewide. The Alabama STEM Council has crafted the blueprint for our state’s STEM Ecosystems, encompassing diverse participants, from schools and community-based organizations to after-school and summer programs, science centers, museums, and beyond.

At the core of our vision are Design Principles that serve as the driving force, steering the efforts of these STEM Ecosystems. With an unwavering commitment to these principles, we envision a future where innovation thrives, opportunities flourish, and the potential of STEM education reaches every Alabamian.

The Alabama STEM Council is actively establishing hubs of STEM activities statewide by creating a network of interconnected STEM Learning Ecosystems (SLE) accessible to all Alabamians. These efforts ensure access to STEM resources and opportunities, developing a skilled workforce for the future.

Key Programs

STEM Learning Ecosystems Planning Incentives
This initiative, funded by the Alabama legislature, aims to create connected STEM Learning Ecosystems (SLEs) across the state. The program promotes collaboration among various sectors, including businesses, schools, higher education, government, and philanthropic organizations. The goal is to enhance STEM education, support local economies, and foster a statewide culture of entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth. The council received numerous applications from diverse groups dedicated to advancing STEM education in Alabama.

STEM Learning Ecosystems Design Incentives
This initiative supports communities and regions in developing comprehensive STEM Learning Ecosystems with ongoing efforts to strengthen the foundation for sustainability. The process includes actively engaging stakeholders in creating ecosystems that address local needs and enhance Alabama’s workforce. Activities have included designing the ecosystem through Design Studios, establishing governance structures, and creating working groups. The community-based STEM Learning Ecosystems continue to integrate workforce development, advance STEM education, promote workforce readiness, and foster economic growth, all aimed at ensuring a sustainable future.

Additional Info

Led by Sheila Holt, Executive Director and Rene McNeal, Ecosystems Coordinator

Contact

Rene McNeal, Ecosystems Coordinator:  rene.mcneal@alabamastemcouncil.org (main contact)

Sheila Holt, Executive Director:  sheila.holt@alabamastemcouncil.org