Inspiring the Next Generation of STEM Professionals

 Students from Saint Albert Catholic Schools received hands-on experience with robot-assisted technology in Council Bluffs.
Students from Saint Albert Catholic Schools received hands-on experience with robot-assisted technology at CHI Health in Council Bluffs as part of their STEM BEST Program.
Today’s students will be the innovators and enterprising members of our future workforce, leading change in unprecedented circumstances and rising to meet the needs of our communities.
 
The STEM BEST Program provides opportunity for students to gain knowledge, understanding and experience in professional settings, working directly with local businesses to pursue career possibilities and understand local business and community needs.
 
Students involved in the Saint Albert STEM BEST Program were able to experience cutting-edge robot-assisted technologies in the medical field. A surgical technician and surgical nurse at CHI Health in Council Bluffs taught the students how to operate the robot, allowing the students a hands-on experience similar to how the robot is used in surgery.
 
Many other STEM BEST Programs are providing amazing work-based learning experiences that inspire students and help prepare the future workforce. That experience will grow again this fall, as newly awarded schools and schools districts will expand on their classroom learning through the STEM BEST Program.
 
The application is now open to apply for the STEM BEST Program, through May 15. To assist with the application process, the STEM Council hosted a webinar series to provide a closer look into commonly asked questions and important aspects of the STEM BEST Program and application process, including:
  • Session 1: “Work-Based Learning and STEM BEST: What is it and why do I need it?” 
  • Session 2: “Tips to building partnerships with local business and industry.” 
  • Session 3: “Grant-Writing 101.” 
  • Session 4: “Cost-Share: What is it and how do I plan for it?” 
  • Session 5: “How to navigate the Online Database for application submission.” 
As a follow up to our webinar series and in an effort to connect and better serve those interested in applying for the STEM BEST Program, the STEM Council will host virtual questions and answer sessions.
 
More information and links to the webinar series can be found at www.IowaSTEM.gov/STEMBEST/application.
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