Our Why

In mid-2021, while preparing to set up a portable station at a local State Park, a small group of Cub Scouts marched by. Reaching out to the scout leaders, the scouts promptly came to my location and we proceeded to set up an extendable mast and antenna, connect the battery, all the activities required for portable operation. After that short period, as it neared their time to go, we reviewed the results of their sweat equity. We made one contact - to the country of Slovenia! The look of wonder in the eyes of these kids and their leaders was astonishing. We looked at the large world map to show them the distance from where we were to where that other station was. They valued the experience even more as I explained that it was a result of their efforts in setting up the antenna, securing the telescopic mast, safely connecting the battery, and correctly documenting the contact information. ALL accomplished by their efforts.

This changed my life trajectory, as I realized there was a void, a hunger in young people for more hands-on experiences like this. A similar event was completed with a group of Girl Scouts later that year. We accomplished our mission by giving the girls a firsthand experience, and the girls earned their Wireless Technology patch, as well.

Educators across the nation still recognize a decline of test scores caused by the impacts and interruptions by the pandemic. This continues to require tremendous effort to reach higher standards and remediate academic deficiencies.

 As we continue to reach out to other schools, it’s obvious these activities are filling a void. There is a need to continue providing engaging activities that promote science and math education. We must invest in the youth of today. We must improve our education of young people.  We must show them that there ARE opportunities available and people who are willing and able to assist them along the way.

STEM ARC club participants have the passion and commitment to do this. We are great at youth outreach and engagement. There is an urgent need for it, so we will continue what we have started, making improvements to our proven approach along the way, and garnering involvement from others in our endeavors.