Creating Pathways for Tomorrow’s Workforce

Giving back is important to me because I feel that much has been given to me. I believe that generosity needs to be passed on to stay alive. It was a privilege to be able to donate my portion of the Shaw Prize to several worthy causes, including Biocom Generation STEAM. Being involved with the San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering since its inauguration taught me first-hand that as professional scientists, we can do more to share what we do. We owe it to our kids to help them see that they can be the innovators of the future.

The Festival provides a hub for the community around STEAM disciplines – a driving force for our economy, our innovation ecosystem, and the industries that color San Diego’s culture. As part of the innovation economy in San Diego, STEM companies need to engage with and inspire the next generation. We all play a role in building San Diego’s future.

Knowing that I am making a difference, not only for other students, but also for myself has been rewarding and an experience that I will be grateful for beyond high school graduation. As part of a team, my work with ScienceBridge has fueled a passion for science and helped me develop confidence that I am ready to be an impressionable presence in my community.

The San Diego [Festival of Science & Engineering] event is the perfect opportunity to connect with an amazing community and engage with parents and kids. Of all the expos, events, and shows our team attends annually, this is by far the one we look forward to each year!

Yesterday I was teaching mitosis in my classroom with 9th graders. Today, I was standing in a lab at Boundless Bio with a lab scientist viewing actual cells in various stages of mitosis. The tour and access to scientists and industry professionals were invigorating and reminded me why I am working hard to inspire the next generation.

Any time that we can connect what students are learning in the classroom to the techniques and applications currently being used in industry, it makes such a difference for the students. Thank you so much for allowing us to make these connections for our students. I also appreciated hearing the academic backgrounds of the scientists and the so many diverse paths they took to get where they are today. These stories will also make such a tremendous impact on the students. Thank you.

Thank you for providing a wonderful day of “Inspiration” to our young women at Hoover High School! The students loved the workshops and keynote presentations as well as the ‘conference’ experience. Appreciate all that you did to make it a great day!

Thank You for Inspiring me to reach my goals and prepare for my future career. I was given many opportunities to work in groups with different women from many San Diego schools. The workshops were fun and informational. Thank you for this great experience.

This collaboration ensures educators provide K-12 students with the knowledge and resources to create a path towards their post-secondary education and career goals. The tour was one of many methods industry can support educators to implement effective teaching and to have the ability to fully support K-12 students in defining their career goals, motivation to learn, and enhance retention and academic success. Thank you for this amazing opportunity.