Project STEMM-Up is a job readiness program. It prepares jobseekers for careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. The program combines learning modules, mentorship, job shadowing, and paid internships. Project partners include Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS), Michigan State University (MSU), and Southern University-Baton Rouge (SUBR).
Need for STEMM-Up
Finding a high-quality job in an in-demand field like STEMM can reduce income inequality and improve quality of life. For that reason, education and job training after high school is an important path to success. That is especially true for people with disabilities. Things can be even more difficult for people with disabilities from racial and ethnic minorities. Often, white jobseekers with disabilities are more likely to get job training. They are also more likely to find jobs after training. STEMM-Up addresses these inequalities. It helps people with disabilities from racial and ethnic minorities to pursue job training, develop their job skills, and find an entry-level job in STEMM.
Our Goals
The overall goal of STEMM-Up is to help people with disabilities find or advance careers in STEMM. To make that happen, STEMM-Up has created online and in-person training modules. These modules are based on social cognitive career theory (SCCT).
Support from the Disability Innovation Fund
To support the goals of the program, STEMM-Up received a $15 million grant from the Disability Innovation Fund. In 2022, the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) shifted its focus to helping people with disabilities find competitive employment. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity was one of 15 state agencies to receive a grant. This grant funding supported the creation of STEMM-Up by a four-organization partnership.
Contact
Michigan State University
620 Farm Lane, East Lansing, Michigan 48864
stemmup@msu.edu
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