STEM needs Diversity for 21st century knowledge Economy

As a rising junior at my High School in St Petersburg FL, I often notice gender and diversity gaps in some of the technology & computer programming courses. Florida’s under performance in educating its young population in STEM careers could limit the state’s access to a competitive workforce and its position in a global economy (study by Center for Public policy and higher education).  A recent report about “Best Jobs of 2015” mentions 7 out of top 10 jobs, are in the area of computer programming and technology. Now is the time we should start introducing basic programming concepts and technology at elementary & middle school grades. Our mission is to offer opportunities in learning computer programming and technology to explore further interests in STEM related careers, improve team-building and leadership skills, learn about business planning and interact with community corporate partners. Through the FLAStem outreach initiative, we aim to develop a shared understanding and partnership between students, educators, volunteers and local tech businesses, community colleges & university. We hope to encourage young minds to be resourceful and can instill the values of creative design, problem solving and innovation so that they can take on future challenges and make an impact.