WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Peter Meijer (R-MI) and Dan Kildee (D-MI), members of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, introduced the bipartisan Advanced Technological Manufacturing Act to expand science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education opportunities for students across America.
“All students deserve access to opportunities in the STEM fields,” said Rep. Meijer. “I’m proud to join Congressman Kildee in this bipartisan effort to expand higher education STEM programs in West Michigan's community colleges. In order to remain competitive in the 21st Century economy, we must continue to increase our investments in programs that support students in science, engineering, math, and technology.”
“In order to be successful in the twenty-first century economy, many jobs require some post-secondary education. Our new bipartisan legislation will help community colleges across America, including right here in Michigan, compete for federal grants to expand STEM education programs,” said Rep. Kildee. “I’m proud to work with Congressman Meijer on this bipartisan legislation to invest in STEM education and ensure our students can find good-paying jobs in the global economy.”
The Advanced Technological Manufacturing Act helps support and prepare students at community colleges for jobs in STEM fields by:
- Updating the Scientific and Advanced-Technology Act of 1992 to create more STEM education opportunities.
- Directing the National Science Foundation (NSF) to create a pilot program to help postsecondary schools successfully compete for NSF grants.
"I am pleased to see that this legislation will open up stronger avenues of access for many more students to engage with STEM education and training programs, and particularly with programs in our community colleges. This access will not only help us prepare our students for careers in growing and emerging fields, but it will also strengthen our communities,” said Grand Rapids Community College President, Dr. Bill Pink.
“The Advanced Technological Manufacturing Act is an important step in ensuring our nation’s ability to compete successfully in the global economy. This bill will increase the ability for community colleges to train people for the professional trades that are the foundation of our economic strength and build our workforce of tomorrow, today. We thank Congressman Kildee for his work to support Mott Community College and the local economy,” said Mott Community College President, Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea.
“Delta College has a strong focus on educating both high school and college students for STEM jobs. The Great Lakes Bay Region has a concentration of businesses that require a trained employee pipeline, and community colleges stand ready to prepare students for today’s and tomorrow’s jobs. Through our College’s interactions directly with the business community, and the support provided through the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education program, Delta College is confident we can nimbly respond to the regional economy’s need for high-tech employees,” said Delta College President, Dr. Jean Goodnow.
Original source can be found here.
