Diversifying STEM
The Diversifying Stem Program out of the Community College of Allegheny County, (CCAC) is an innovative hands-on STEM based summer enrichment and dual enrollment program that is targeting the predominantly African American Homewood area.
Partnering with Youth Enrichment Services (YES) and the Homewood Children’s Village, this project aims to boost education attainment for students of color in Homewood by enhancing career and college awareness, academic preparation and STEM education. Postsecondary education is crucial for building a skilled workforce. This includes summer enrichment programs and dual enrollment pathways to improve access and equity in STEM careers, aiming to bridge achievement gaps and prepare students for future careers.
Diversifying STEM aims to enhance career and college awareness, academic preparation, and education attainment in STEM and Health-related professions within the region. The program seeks to build off existing successful programs through local and national partnerships. This is particularly important as Pittsburgh has developed a reputation as a tech hub, with job growth occurring in information technology and advanced manufacturing.
Progress
Even at an early stage Diversifying Stem has had an impact in the community. This project will build on best practices from three existing programs at the college that have realized significant success over the past five years. These programs include:
Verizon Innovation Learning: “Exposure & Awareness”, a 4 year program for middle school students paired with high school mentors. With 499 middle school participants and 59 High School mentors, participants reported an improved STEM awareness/engagement level of 81%.
Neighborhood Learning Alliance: “Access to Pathways”, a program designed for high school students, engaged 450 high school participants who collectively earned 1,589 college credits, a 89% success rate.
Healthcare Careers Academy: “Exposure & Pipeline”, a program developed for middle school students, has 60 participants and promises to be similarly successful.
