OUR MISSION
The mission of STEM in Action is to engage and inspire future innovators, scientists, and entrepreneurs through high-quality STEM-based immersive academies and field opportunities. We work to bridge educational gaps, connecting industry partners to K12 schools to shape the future STEM workforce through strategic initiatives supporting STEM career pathways both military and civilian.
Julie Cwikla, PhD
CEO of STEM in Action
T.W. Bennett Distinguished Professor
→ Link to Bio
STEM in Action Board Members
STEM in Action’s Board of Directors exemplifies the diversity and scope of our programs, bringing together leaders from every corner of the STEM community. Our board features flag officers, accomplished scientists, skilled engineers, dedicated educators, and public relations experts, each contributing unique perspectives and expertise. This collective knowledge grounds our strategy in real-world experience and a shared passion for advancing education, driving our mission to empower the next generation of innovators and leaders.
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United States Navy
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PR Operations Manager at C Spire
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Board Secretary
Strat S.P.A.
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Retired Director of Army Instructor in Mobile County Public School System and co-founder of the JROTC STEM Leadership Academy
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VP of Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives, Walker-Miller Energy Services
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United States Coast Guard
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Amazon Web Services and Bean Path
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R&B Feder Foundation. Marketing and Development Professional.
JROTC STEM Leadership Academy
The JROTC STEM Leadership Academy equips high school cadets with hands-on STEM design challenges and leadership experiences directly connecting them to real-world military and civilian career opportunities. The Academy builds teamwork, leadership, and 21st-century skills, preparing JROTC cadets to contribute to the nation’s STEM workforce.
What JROTC Cadets are Saying …
“At first, working on the aircraft model was stressful, but as we used the engineering design process, we started getting better results. Instead of getting frustrated, I felt accomplished. “
— 11th Grader SAVANNAH Academy
“I learned that the U.S. Coast Guard is highly involved in domestic humanitarian aid with various occupations related to engineering and machine operations.”
— 11th Grader SAN FRANCISCO Academy
“I got over my fear of ziplining and went back again. The only thing that is standing in your way right now, right at this moment is fear. Leave fear behind you. Take that step, and it will be okay.”
— 9th Grader ALABAMA Academy
“From what I learned this week, I’ll take the risk to get out of my comfort zone, listen to new ideas, and be open-minded by communicating and actively listening to those around me.”
— 10th Grader GEORGIA Academy
“I have more of an idea on how to handle changing circumstances and adapt quickly as challenges come into play and to have fun with altered plans ”
— 10th Grader FLORIDA Academy
“Failure is never failure unless you give up. You make mistakes, and it’s okay, if they are fixed. Improvement is coming. Failure is one of the best teachers. 11TH GRADER, VANGUARD HIGH SCHOOL “ ”
— 11th Grader MESQUITE TEXAS Academy
GenSea: Blue Economy Pathways
Through field trips, internships, and educator training, GenSea increases awareness of blue economy careers and inspires students to envision a future rooted in their home state. Remarkably, just one field trip significantly boosts students’ interest and attitudes toward pursuing opportunities at home, ensuring Mississippi’s workforce investments benefit its own communities.
STEM in Action
CORE Program Elements
RESEARCH-DRIVEN APPROACH
Investigate questions of national and international significance in STEM education
Bring research funds into regions to improve STEM learning opportunities
Design transformative educational programs that enhance learning at all levels
Build partnerships that work collaboratively to illuminate STEM career pathways both military and civilian
COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT
Develop community and industry relationships that support STEM learning opportunities
Create engaging STEM learning experiences for all
Develop interdisciplinary programs that inspire future innovators
Support educational development through cutting-edge research and technology
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS
Out-of-school STEM programs for students, teachers and military cadre
Interdisciplinary curriculum development and design for in-school exploration
Support for emerging STEM professionals, illuminating access points and career opportunities
Professional learning for educators and students on location through internships and STEM research experiences
About our company
STEMinACTION is a dynamic non-profit corporation dedicated to transforming STEM education and creating opportunities for all students.
STEMinACTION operates at the intersection of innovative learning, community partnerships and educational empowerment.
We design, implement, evaluate and research entire programs for the region and the nation but we also assist scientists with their individual broader impacts co-developing creative ways to bring STEM content to more learners.
