Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists and Engineers

Scientists and engineers are responsible for some of the most extraordinary achievements in human history. From electricity to super computers and automobiles to stealth aircraft, we can thank scientists and engineers for enabling the modern world and propelling the advancement of humankind.

So it is with pride and excitement that I look forward to the USA Science & Engineering Festival in Washington, D.C., April 25-27. Co-founded by entrepreneur Larry Bock and Lockheed Martin, this is our country’s only national science festival. More than 300,000 people from around the world will attend this free, three-day event that will feature over 750 science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) organizations presenting engaging, hands-on activities to get young people excited about these critical fields.

In addition to being fun and engaging, this event is important. The U.S. is falling behind in STEM expertise because we’re not preparing our students for STEM careers. Consider these statistics:

• In 2013, just 36 percent of U.S. 8th graders were rated proficient or higher in a national math assessment, and 26 percent scored below the basic level.
• In 2012, U.S. 15 year-olds ranked 21st in science among the 34 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. We ranked 26th in math.
• In 2011, only 45 percent of U.S. high school graduates were ready for college work in mathematics. Only 30 percent were ready in science.

To reverse this trend, and keep up with the growing demand for STEM professionals, we must redouble our efforts in STEM education. How? I propose a three-pronged approach:

1. Introduce mathematical and scientific concepts early. A child’s mind is never more open to exploration, new ideas, and the magic of math and science than their first years of school. The Massachusetts STEM Initiative suggested the need for fostering interest in STEM careers as early as preschool, because high school may be too late. At a very early age, kids need to learn that math is cool, and, as they grow older, that algebra, calculus, and physics are the key to exciting innovations that can solve our planet’s most complex challenges.
   
   
2. Support teachers by volunteering in our classrooms. Introducing math and science concepts as fun and exciting is great, but it’s not enough. We need to help our teachers and ensure they have the tools they need to engage students. At Lockheed Martin, we encourage our employees to volunteer in schools and talk to students — especially young women and minorities who are underrepresented in STEM fields — about the value and excitement of a STEM career. One of Lockheed Martin’s key STEM initiatives is Engineers in the Classroom, which fosters one-to-one connections between our engineers and students aimed at inspiring students to pursue STEM careers. Together with National Geographic, we’ve developed interactive learning materials that our engineers can use in their volunteer efforts.
   
   
3. Partner to accelerate progress. The more individuals and companies join forces with schools and STEM-focused organizations, the faster we’ll see improvements in math and science education. Several non-profit organizations are taking up the charge and providing rigorous, innovative STEM education programs used in middle and high schools across the U.S. Lockheed Martin is a proud supporter of many of the organizations that have demonstrated the effectiveness of their programs. In fact, of the more than $25 million we contribute to non-profit groups each year, roughly half is committed to STEM education.

I’m convinced that we can strengthen U.S. performance in STEM education by starting early, supporting our teachers, and investing in the most effective programs. Together, let’s support the great scientists and engineers of the future, and stand committed to regaining our nation’s leadership position in technology and innovation.

And remember, if you’re in or near Washington, D.C., between April 25 and 27, I encourage you to check out the USA Science & Engineering Festival. Make it a special trip for your family or a young person you’re mentoring. You’ll never forget that first spark of recognition, when a child’s face lights up and you hear, “Wow! Science is awesome!”

Photograph: Inspiring Tomorrow's Innovators - Four inquisitive young students interact with Lockheed Martin engineers working on NASA's Juno spacecraft prior to its launch in 2011. When it enters Jupiter's orbit on July 4, 2016, Juno will help scientists better understand the origin and evolution of our solar system's largest planet. "You have opened up new worlds, new discoveries, and new concepts," shared one student's parent after the tour. "Our children will remember this experience for the rest of their lives."