At what age should we begin focusing on STEM learning? According to Jeremy Anderson, the data overwhelmingly shows that students are already forming interest and thoughts on STEM careers when they're in elementary school. That makes it vital to look at how we include STEM career introduction at a younger age. In discussions about STEM, math often takes a backseat as focus shifts to science and technology. However, a strong math foundation is essential for students to succeed in these field, and effective math instruction starts with high-quality professional development for teachers.

Jeremy Anderson is the CEO of the National Math + Science Initiative (NMSI), a team of dedicated professionals and teacher coaches who share a common vision: to close opportunity gaps and increase college access for all students through rigorous STEM programs. With over 25 years of experience in K-12 education policy, and plenty of educators in his family, Jeremy sees firsthand the need for improved Math and Science instruction.

Before joining NMSI in August 2023, Jeremy served as the president of the Education Commission of the States (ECS), and has a background in strategic communications, political campaigns, public affairs, and government relations, which enables him to effectively advocate for NMSI's proven STEM solutions and partnerships.

Learn more about NMSI on Episode 283 with Carlos Romero

Connect with Jeremy & NMSI:

• The National Math & Science Initiative nms.org
• Free STEM Lessons from NMSI
• Twitter/X: @nmsi
• Facebook: @nationalmathandscience
• YouTube: @MathAndScienceNow
• Instagram: @nmsination
• Jeremy's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeremy-anderson-3027a314

Chris Woods is the host of the STEM Everyday Podcast... Connect with him:

• Website: dailystem.com
• Twitter/X: @dailystem
• Instagram: @dailystem
• YouTube: @dailystem

Get Chris's book Daily STEM on Amazon

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The education software space is filled with plenty of choices for helping kids design and create. That's especially true in the CAD space, as programs like Tinkercad appeal to younger kids and Fusion/AutoCAD/OnShape & more are great for older students.

SelfCAD is a new software choice that combines the best of block/shape design from Tinkercad and the higher level design of traditional CAD software. SelfCAD doesn’t require months of training, nor is it limited to professional engineers and mathematicians. SelfCAD was designed with the goal of simplifying the user interface and the overall 3D design and printing process that is intuitive, easy to use and easy to learn, especially for beginners. SelfCAD believes that 3D CAD software, in addition to being intuitive and easy to use, should still include advanced tools for modeling, sculpting, and preparation for 3D printing, to ensure that the design process is as real-world and authentic as possible and presents no barriers to creativity.

SelfCAD is a professional-grade 3D modeling software platform, ideal for both beginners and advanced users, offering a robust set of tools for 3D modeling, sculpting, and rapid prototyping.

In terms of education, SelfCAD's mission is to address the skills gap in STEM education, specifically in 3D technology. They aim to empower educators worldwide to create engaging, technology-rich learning environments that prepare students for a future driven by creativity and innovation. SelfCAD even offers curriculum and training, career exploration and technology applications curriculum, and grant writing support for 3D technology grants (for printers, scanners, etc.)

Connect with Kara & SelfCAD:

• Website: selfcad.com
• YouTube: @selfcad
• Facebook: @selfcad
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/selfcad/

Chris Woods is the host of the STEM Everyday Podcast... Connect with him:

• Website: dailystem.com
• Twitter/X: @dailystem
• Instagram: @dailystem
• YouTube: @dailystem

Get Chris's book Daily STEM on Amazon

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For more than 40 years, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF) has supported the brightest minds in STEM, with its Astronaut Scholars making groundbreaking contributions—from launching payloads into space to pioneering agricultural innovations and advancing congenital heart disease research. The prestigious Astronaut Scholarship is known nationwide for being among the largest merit-based monetary scholarships awarded to college level STEM juniors and seniors. ASF has a life-long relationship with each Astronaut Scholar and provides them with mentors, professional and personal development and opportunities to network with astronauts, C-suite level executives and industry leaders to help advance their careers.

Established in 1984 by six of the surviving Mercury 7 Astronauts along with Betty Grissom, William Douglas and Henri Landwirth, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation has awarded over $10 million in scholarships to more than 850 students.

What makes this scholarship truly special is its mentorship component: every Astronaut Scholar is paired with a mentor who helps to guide their academic journey and professional growth. Now, former Astronaut Scholars who once benefited from this mentorship are paying it forward as mentors themselves.

Tomas Collado is a 2024 Astronaut Scholar and Mechanical Engineering major from Washington University in St. Louis. His mentor, Adero Paige, is a 2004 Astronaut Scholar Alum who also serves on ASF’s Board of Directors. Their stories illustrate the lasting impact of mentorship and the power of investing in the next generation of STEM leaders.

Connect with The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation:

• Website: astronautscholarship.org
• YouTube: @astroscholarfdn
• Instagram: @astronautscholarfdn
• Facebook: @AstroScholarFdn
• LinkedIn: astronaut-scholarship-foundation

Chris Woods is the host of the STEM Everyday Podcast... Connect with him:

• Website: dailystem.com
• Twitter/X: @dailystem
• Instagram: @dailystem
• YouTube: @dailystem

Get Chris's book Daily STEM on Amazon

Support the show