This May, a new scholarship program launched by the Missouri Chamber Foundation in partnership with The Boeing Company and the Missouri Department of Higher Education will award $1,000 scholarships to 10 Missouri high school seniors who are dedicated to pursuing a STEM career pathway in college and beyond.
Similar to signing days for athletes, the first annual Missouri STEM Signing Day will recognize these students as they make their commitments to pursue STEM postsecondary education. At a May 8 event, the recipients will be awarded their scholarships and sign their letters of intent to attend a two-year, four-year or technical college in Missouri. (See event details below.)
Missouri STEM Signing Day is made possible by The Boeing Company, the primary sponsor of this year’s scholarships.
“At Boeing, we see firsthand the endless opportunities available to those with a STEM-focused skill set,” said John Frederick, Director of State and Local Government Relations at The Boeing Company. “It is our honor to recognize Missouri students committed to pursuing a career in STEM. The opportunity that follows them through their career will surely benefit Boeing and all Missourians alike.”
The Missouri Department of Higher Education serves as a key collaborator on the new program.
“STEM careers continue to be a driving force of Missouri’s economy. We are proud to partner with The Boeing Company and the Missouri Chamber to recognize students devoted to pursuing these important programs of study,” said Zora Mulligan, commissioner of MDHE. “Choosing STEM will give these students the skills and knowledge to fill a needed gap here at home, and prepare them to compete in a global marketplace.”
Preparing the workforce is a driving goal of Missouri 2030, the Missouri Chamber’s 15-year strategic initiative to make the state an economic leader by the year 2030. Gallup research conducted for Missouri 2030 revealed that only 44 percent of Missouri business owners are satisfied with the state’s availability of skilled workers, and only 30 percent think Missouri is able to retain top talent.
Employers in science, technology, engineering and math fields in particular struggle to fill open jobs. Through its Mathematics and Science Coalition, the Missouri Chamber Foundation engages businesses and education leaders statewide to help raise awareness of those opportunities and ensure students are equipped for in-demand careers.
“Missouri STEM Signing Day is a new effort to help encourage and support the STEM workforce of tomorrow,” said Daniel P. Mehan, Missouri Chamber president and CEO. “We are excited to be partnering with The Boeing Company and the Missouri Department of Higher Education to bring this scholarship opportunity to outstanding Missouri students who are passionate about pursuing postsecondary education and careers in STEM. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and future goals with them on May 8.”
To learn more about Missouri STEM Signing Day, contact Missouri Chamber Vice President of Education Programs Brian Crouse at 573.634.3511 or bcrouse@mochamber.com.
Missouri STEM Signing Day
Wednesday, May 8, 2019
12:00pm – 1:30pm
Missouri Capitol First Floor Rotunda
201 W Capitol Ave
Jefferson City, MO 65101
RSVP to attend (free)
