The Importance of a Robust STEM Program in the East
Executive Director of the STEM East Initiative, Steve Hill Speaks to Wayne County Industry Leaders about the Importance of a Robust STEM Program in the East
Goldsboro, NC – The Wayne County Development Alliance, Inc., had the distinct pleasure of hosting Mr. Steve Hill, Executive Director of the STEM East Initiative for its semi-annual Industry Leader’s Luncheon. The event was held on April 19 at the Goldsboro Country Club. In attendance were many local industry and civic leaders all of which agreed with the points that Mr. Hill made.
In his presentation, Mr. Hill discussed the importance of developing and implementing a robust Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program in Eastern NC. He explained that, at least 42% of the new jobs being created in NC would require at minimum some post-secondary education, many in the STEM disciplines. Not only would a viable STEM program benefit students in that it would offer them more opportunities for employment and earning potential over their lifetime, it would also fill skill gaps that are being identified by industries across the east. During his presentation, Mr. Hill lauded the efforts made in Wayne County around its WORKS initiative and CRC program, stating that,
“Wayne County has some of the best practices around workforce development”.
Mr. Hill’s emphasis on the importance of the role of educators in workforce development was exemplified by his statement that, “teachers literally control the future of this economy”. To further this point Mr. Hill explained that industry leaders need to be involved in what is going on in the school systems to ensure that future workforce is equipped with the skills necessary to meet the needs and demands of industries in the years and decades to come.
The Wayne County Development Alliance would like to thank Mr. Steve Hill as well as those in attendance. Mike Haney, VP/Existing Industry Specialist with the Wayne County Development Alliance stated, “It is encouraging to see this kind of support and interest from our industry leaders. The future of our economy and success of our industries lie in the hands of the youth. Mr. Hill has laid not only the groundwork but a clear path to achieve that success.”
WCDA, Inc.
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