Growing Roots for More STEM

by Marjorie Censer
Washington Post

Local technology companies, concerned by a growing pool of jobs and an inadequate number of qualified employees, have increasingly focused on initiatives to improve what they call STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The focus is partly out of necessity. Many companies, such as defense contractors who need employees with security clearances, simply can’t find enough people to fill their jobs.

Many are beginning to broaden their approach from a focus on university programs and newly minted graduates.

“Companies have been diversifying their investments,” from looking beyond college students to kids in middle and high schools", said James Brown, executive director of the STEM Education Coalition, whose membership includes associations and businesses. “To the extent that you’re really trying to look at the big picture ... [companies are betting] that if we make the pipeline stronger there, it will have ripple effects upwards.”

There are multiple ways to address STEM education; here is a look at how local businesses are spending their time and dollars:

Read the rest of this Washington Post article.

Fresh Faces of Philanthropy

Camera crews swiveled their lenses and a crowd of a few hundred teenagers cheered when they saw Zach Bonner stride toward the White House, the final steps of a 650-mile fundraising walk to help homeless children.There was a pause, though, before the hero's welcome, and a brief detour: He had to use the bathroom. Zach is, after all, just a kid.

At 11, he's one of cadre of child philanthropists who seem to be growing in number and visibility as corporations and colleges reward their efforts to help others.

Read the full Washington Post article here.