The Future of Innovation Starts Here

STEM Forward is a new CAPA-HC initiative that brings hands-on STEM learning opportunities to students across Howard County.

Through coding, robotics, engineering, earth science, and other project-based activities, students will build curiosity, confidence, creativity, and essential problem-solving skills.

APPLY TO BECOME A HIGH SCHOOL TUTOR
Elementary student registration will open soon.

Building the Next Generation of STEM Leaders

STEM Forward connects students at different stages of their educational journey.

Elementary Students

Students will participate in engaging, hands-on STEM activities that strengthen:

  • Critical thinking
  • Problem-solving
  • Creativity
  • Collaboration
  • Interest in future STEM learning

After-school STEM programs are planned at Howard County elementary schools, with a focus on expanding access in underserved communities.

Middle School Students

Middle school students will receive mentorship and support as they explore the research process and develop science fair projects.

Planned resources include:

  • Research guidance
  • Project-development support
  • Workspace and specialized equipment
  • Prototyping materials
  • Mentorship from high school and college students

High School Tutors

High school students will have opportunities to serve as tutors, mentors, and program assistants.

Tutors will receive training in:

  • STEM instruction
  • Leadership
  • Communication
  • Classroom support
  • Mentoring younger students

These positions will help high school students strengthen their own STEM knowledge while gaining meaningful teaching, leadership, and service experience.

Tutor applications are now open.

[APPLY NOW]

College Mentors

College students will support curriculum development, tutor training, mentoring, and hands-on activities.

Their participation will help connect elementary, middle, high school, and college students through a strong STEM education and workforce pipeline.

 

STEM Forward Programs

Programs currently being developed include:

After-School STEM Programs

Hands-on STEM classes offered in partnership with Howard County schools.

STEM Learning Center

A dedicated learning space designed to make STEM programs and specialized resources available to students throughout Howard County.

School-Break Programs and Summer Camps

Full-day and extended STEM activities offered during school breaks and summer vacation.

STEM Field Trips

Educational visits to public institutions, research facilities, technology organizations, and STEM-focused companies throughout Maryland.

Science Fair and Research Support

Mentorship, workspace, equipment, and project-development resources for middle and high school students.

Our Expected Annual Impact

350–400
Elementary students participating in hands-on STEM learning

100
Middle school students receiving research and project mentorship

Up to 60
High school tutors and program assistants developing leadership skills

Up to 20
College students serving as mentors and curriculum contributors

Parent Testimonial

“I attended the graduation ceremony for TechGirls last May and came away inspired and impressed. The diversity of the students was amazing—it truly reflected our county’s demographic. Parents were amazed not only by the stellar program but also by the relationships their children built with mentors. This program will pay dividends for years to come, sparking curiosity in our younger students while reinforcing leadership and STEM aspirations in our high school mentors.”

Coming Soon

Additional opportunities and information will be announced as the program develops:

  • Elementary student registration
  • Middle school programs
  • Tutor training
  • School partnership opportunities
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • STEM Learning Center activities
  • School-break programs
  • Summer camps
  • Field trips

Please check this page regularly for updates.

Join the Future of STEM

STEM Forward is just getting started. Together, we can expand access to high-quality STEM education, inspire curiosity, and prepare the next generation of innovators and community leaders.

High School Students:
[APPLY TO BECOME A TUTOR]

Parents and Students:
Registration information is coming soon.

Schools and Community Partners:
Contact us at stemforward@capa-hc.org to explore partnership opportunities.

STEM Forward is supported through Federal Community Project Funding under NASA.