The KC STEM Alliance is a nonprofit organization, managed through the UMKC School of Computing and Engineering, which connects a network of businesses, educators, and related organizations working to inspire interest in science, technology, engineering, and math fields within the Kansas City region.
The nonprofit had its start in 2011 with the help of a $3.2 million gift from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, and it since has worked on executing its vision which includes:
- Create a shared services model for two nationally acclaimed STEM programs, Project Lead the Way and FIRST, by assisting with data collection, program evaluation, and facilitating school and industry partnerships
- Support a solid foundation of STEM education for all students, regardless of race, gender, or economic status
- Increase the quality, quantity, and diversity of job-ready candidates for local STEM employers
Advance economic development and progress in our community
To work toward its vision, KC STEM Alliance currently leads multiple initiatives including Kansas City’s STEM Learning Ecosystem, The Girls in STEM Initiative, and support for Project Lead the Way and KC FIRST Robotics.
Additionally, the nonprofit has worked to provide resources to the community, such as links to scholarships, helping individuals understand what STEM opportunities exist for students, and publishing reports such as Closing the Gender Gap in STEM.
To achieve what it has so far, KC STEM Alliance has relied on mentors and volunteers. To find out more information on volunteering and mentorship for students interested in STEM, click HERE.
To view KC STEM Alliance’s full site, which includes resources, upcoming events, and more, click HERE.