Governor Charlie Baker recently named 29 appointed and 10 ex officio members, including Senator Jason Lewis, to the Massachusetts STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Advisory Council. The STEM Advisory Council strives to expand access to quality STEM education for students across the Commonwealth.
Senator Lewis was named an ex officio member of the Council in his capacity as Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development. Senator Lewis also serves as a member of the Joint Committee on Education.
The STEM Advisory Council began its work by undertaking an exploratory process to determine where the Council could have the most impact. The Council endorsed four areas on which to focus its work: expanding work-based learning opportunities in STEM fields; developing and implementing early college career pathways; broadening access to high-quality computer science and engineering education; and, strengthening and aligning the work of the Regional STEM Networks.
“STEM industries continue to grow rapidly across the Commonwealth and help strengthen our nation-leading innovation economy,” said Governor Baker. “In order for Massachusetts to continue capitalizing in STEM, it’s important we continue to expose our students to these industries and I look forward to the work the advisory council will take on this year.”
“Education in the STEM fields has proven to be a strong foundation for in-demand jobs and attractive careers,” said Senator Lewis. “I look forward to working with colleagues on the STEM Advisory Council to explore opportunities to further expand educational opportunities for all students.”
The President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology estimates that, during the next decade, U.S. industries will need one million more STEM graduates than the system is expected to produce. Despite the need, the U.S. Department of Education estimates that just 1 in 6 high school seniors are proficient in math and interested in pursuing STEM higher education or careers.
Created by M.G.L. Chapter 6, Section 218, the Council brings together representatives from state agencies and the Legislature, as well as public and private sector partners involved with STEM planning and programming.
