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Our Approach

How We Work

At STEM Next, we leverage collaboration, innovation, and evidence-based practices to drive meaningful change in STEM education beyond the classroom. Our approach ensures that every initiative is grounded in research and tailored to meet the unique needs of our communities.

Supporting Out-of-School-Time Programs

STEM Next provides out-of-school-time programs the tools and support they need to create the best possible STEM experiences for youth.

Taking a Big Picture Approach

We advise decision-makers and leaders, we connect problem-solvers across sectors and communities, and we're changing public perception of who belongs in STEM.

Our Work

With our nationwide network of local and state partners, we spark young people’s curiosity and confidence in STEM through hands-on learning opportunities beyond the classroom—connecting STEM to their interests, lives, and future careers.

The Institute for a STEM Ready America

A virtual hub driving innovation in the field of afterschool and summer STEM to revolutionize how we prepare youth for the careers of today and tomorrow.

four girls at a conference

The Flight Crew

A youth ambassador program of STEM Next elevating young voices in STEM to inspire their peers and demonstrate that STEM is for everyone and happens everywhere.

teen with drill

The Million Girls Moonshot

A moonshot initiative with the ambitious goal to foster an engineering mindset in one million more girls through afterschool and summer programs by 2025.

girl cleaning up trash

STEM Next Opportunity Fellows

Fellows advancing STEM through their high-impact placements with government agencies.

Our Impact

Results

No one understands this work better. Building, growing and expanding access to afterschool and summer STEM is who we are–and we have the track record to prove it.

12.5M

Youth Reached

Our work has positively impacted 12.5 million young people through out-of-school STEM.

176,996

Programs impacted

Local afterschool and summer programs have been directly impacted by our work.

390,000

Informal Educators Engaged

Our comprehensive resources have supported nearly 400,000 out-of-school educators nationwide.

100%

Report Belonging

100% of the 2023 Flight Crew program participants reported that they feel like they belong in STEM.

National Scale, Youth Impact

“The Million Girls Moonshot is really important because it provides a structure, a framework and quality resources we can pass directly on to our programs.”

Terri Foulkes

Missouri Afterschool Network

“I can wholeheartedly say I would not be the same person if it wasn’t for my Flight Crew experiences. I’ve made so many friends, met incredible mentors, and gained so many valuable skills.”

Mackenzie

2022 Flight Crew

“Kids of all ages need experiences with design thinking if they’re going to succeed in our 21st-century world.”

Lisa

Intel Chemical Engineer