About STEMapalooza

October 24th-25th, 2008

Science, Technology, Engineering, Math

Industry is calling for more students proficient in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), problem solving, communication skills, and teamwork for innovation and competitiveness.  They are focusing on partnerships with P-20 institutions, understanding the current education systems, and developing opportunities for teachers and students to be exposed to the myriad of jobs inside their industry. Workforce Development Councils and Centers are connecting with traditional education systems to align their programs, content and assessments. Concurrently, institutions of higher education are focusing on developing more resources for students in early math and science courses, finding ways to partner with industry to provide well-rounded and relevant experiential learning, and creating STEM related centers to elevate funding for STEM related projects. Technical and Community colleges are aligning themselves with industry sectors and providing specialized programs for students. And, P-12 is looking at how to articulate math and science across grade levels, understand what is important for workforce development, and reach out to higher education and industry for partnerships that can provide students with more experiences for more choices. All of these institutions are trying to raise the bar by understanding what is going to be required of students for the next workforce generation. None of these institutions can do it by themselves and none can be expected to. Together they can ensure that every student has more than just a general awareness of STEM disciplines and that their knowledge base is relevant and meaningful to the current economic climate. 

STEMapalooza is an event to bring these constituents together to better appreciate and understand how each of the stakeholders contribute, develop and establish continuing relationships among stakeholders, engage policy makers and the media, spotlight the successes, and create an atmosphere of shared responsibility. Events will include: (1) main showcase event for STEM providers; (2) discussion panels grouped by theme (i.e. industries, higher education, K-12, students, informal education, etc.); (3) Friday luncheon with Governor Ritter (invited); (4) research poster sessions displaying cutting-edge STEM research; and (5) a pre-expo reception for exhibitors. The audience for the event includes: business and industry, formal educators at all levels, parents, government agencies, informal educators, chambers of commerce, non-profit coalitions, and others. The event will be held October 24-25, 2008 at the Colorado Convention Center.