Mission Statement

We are an organization driven to help learners make connections by growing partnerships between schools, community, work, and the global enterprise, enabling the development of STEM Literacy and preparing them for future workforce demands in Northwest Pennsylvania.

OUR STEM DEFINITION:

STEM education is a student-centered approach that encourages persistence, curiosity, collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and critical and design thinking that will contribute to future workforce development and society as a whole.

Four people sitting at a table with coffee and notes, smiling at the camera.

Infographic about PA STEM's vision for 2026, highlighting challenges and future priorities.

PSSE 2026

Four members of the NWPA STEM Ecosystem Steering Committee attended the PA Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE) in-person convening this January, where they engaged in dynamic discussions and collaborative learning with STEM leaders from across the state.

Grounded in the PSSE Leadership Summit, the NWPA STEM Ecosystem aligned with a unified statewide vision to address the disconnect between education, workforce needs, and fragmented efforts. The focus centers on strengthening cross‑sector partnerships, building future‑ready skills in high‑demand areas, and committing to equity and access for all learners. This shared vision provides a clear north star to guide collective STEM work across Pennsylvania over the next several years.

Join for the NWPA STEM Ecosystem Summit 2026

Join the Ecosystem!

NWPA STEM Ecosystem Membership Benefits:

Collaborative Opportunities: Members will have the chance to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders, including educators, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies, creating synergies that drive innovation in STEM education and workforce development.

Resource Sharing: The ecosystem offers access to shared resources, such as funding opportunities, professional development, curriculum tools, and cutting-edge STEM practices, which can help members enhance their programs and initiatives.

Increased Visibility and Impact: Joining the ecosystem provides a platform to showcase members’ work, amplifying their reach and influence while contributing to a region-wide strategy for improving STEM education and opportunities for students.

Professional Growth and Networking: Members will benefit from networking with other professionals in the region, allowing them to build connections, exchange ideas, and stay updated on emerging STEM trends and practices.

These benefits help foster a connected and thriving STEM community in NWPA.

Seven children in a gymnasium holding awards and wearing medals around their necks, smiling at the camera.

STEM Design Challenge

1st & 2nd Place Winners

Red Bank Valley 4th & 5th Grades

Partners: Local school districts, IU6, Pest Management, Grove City College, PennWest Clarion, United Way of Clarion, and PennState Extension 4H Program

Spring 2025

Fifteen adults n an auditorium holding Regional Playoff event signs and smiling at the camera.

NWPA Esports Tournament & Career Event

Partners: PennWEST Edinboro, STEMForged, Insight & IU5

Sponsors: Intel, Cisco, Lenovo, and Logitech

March 2025