The STEM Education Center

The STEM Education Center is a committed community partner working toward broadening the participation of STEM with the goal of equity and access to high-quality STEM experiences for all. We believe that it takes many different participants with their various strengths to come together as an ecosystem to build meaningful, connected STEM opportunities. Learning happens not only in the classroom but in informal spaces—educators can be peers, family members, and community members.

Our collaborative approach toward championing high-quality, inclusive STEM education for those who have historically been underserved, includes the following:

  • Hosting AmeriCorps VISTAs at WPI: With the mission to alleviate poverty, AmeriCorps VISTA members are helping build the infrastructure and capacity at WPI to sustainably and effectively support PreK-12 students, educators, and families in the Worcester community and greater Central Massachusetts region with equitable access to high-quality, integrated, and inclusive STEM education opportunities through a STEM Ecosystem.
  • Supervising On-Campus IQPs: Projects sponsored by the STEM Education Project Center situate education in a greater context with socially relevant problems while partnering with nonprofits, educators, and researchers, both locally and globally.
  • Serving the Community: The STEM Education Center is responsible for leading the Central MA STEM Network Ecosystem
  • Consulting: The STEM Education Center collaborates with WPI community members regarding their research and other projects related to high-quality STEM education.

Designing My Future: a STEM Career Expo for Students and Families

Save the date for the second annual Designing My Future STEM career expo happening on Wednesday, October 16th from 5:30-7:30pm at the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester. Come and learn how things you already love are surprisingly related to STEM, hear from professionals about their own journeys to STEM careers, and learn about STEM opportunities from local organizations and colleges. Presenters, interested in sharing what you do? Learn more or contact Katie Elmes (kaelmes@wpi.edu). This event is part of STEM Week and the Central MA STEM Network Ecosystem. Learn more about both. 

Project Consultation Form

Are you a member of the WPI community and want our input on a project connected to K-12? Please take a moment to fill out this form about your needs so we can best know how to help you.