It was in the early 2000’s that the United States realized the students in our nation weren’t keeping up with the standards of other countries with regards to education in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, or what is now referred to as STEAM. Studies showed that there would be unfavorable consequences if the United States could not compete in the global economy as a result of inadequate education for our youth, who would then grow up to be ill prepared for the workforce.
More in-depth international comparisons of education fueled heavy discussion in America, and further research unveiled the underlying needs of school systems in order to help guide the development of targeted solutions. Government officials and educators began to push harder at ensuring that every student graduating from high school was equipped with essential STEAM knowledge and competencies in order to increase their chances of success in the next chapter of life.
A relatively new holiday, National STEAM Day was created in 2015 by MGA Entertainment as a result of their brand called Project Mc², a company that encourages young females to (literally) experiment within these fields on a show of the same name. The show aired for a few years before being canceled, but the series focused on four girls who work for the government in a secret spy organization that is trying to protect the world. Apparently, the reason why this holiday is celebrated annually on November 8th is because the organization is called NOV8, pronounced “innovate”.
I have written several pieces about influential people in STEAM over the course of this year, and we respect and admire so many individuals who are kicking ass in these fields. As a small business, we literally would not be where we are today without the contributions of scientists and researchers who are out there making incredible discoveries and working tirelessly to be the best that they can at what they do. As women, we are utterly blown away by the badass ladies who are showing the world that men no longer hold all the power. Because, truly, knowledge is power.
Thank you to everyone who is taking an active role in increasing interest and involvement in STEAM, especially with regard to our youth. They are the future, and though the world will keep on spinning without our assistance, it would be a very bleak and boring place without advancements in these disciplines. And we wouldn't be able to participate in the A of STEAM without the hard work of all those in STEM!
xo
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