Verizon's free summer STEM program for middle school students open for registration

(BPT) - Verizon is excited to announce that its free STEM summer program - now in its 10th year - is open for registration.

Hosted on 45 college campuses in 26 states across the country, the Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program, in partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE), offers FREE summer programs on college campuses across the country where middle school students gain access to hands-on learning in STEM fields, exposing them to technologies like augmented reality, 3D printing, drones and robotics, and the possibilities of college education. Students collaborate on real-world projects, engage with industry professionals, and develop problem-solving skills that prepare them for future careers.

The program's interactive curriculum, developed by Verizon in partnership with Arizona State University's J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute, centers on four educational tracks: immersive media, smart solutions, digital product innovations and AI.

Learn more and sign up.

"As tech and AI continue accelerating the pace of innovation, it's up to all business leaders to ensure the next generation has tech access and advancement opportunities," said Donna Epps, Verizon's Chief Responsible Business Officer. "The Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program, in partnership with NACCE, offers an opportunity for students to engage with tech over the summer and propel their own learning and digital skills to set them up for success during the school year, beyond middle school and in life. Program participants are extraordinary individuals inside and outside the classroom, and Verizon is honored to be a part of their journey."

"One big thing I remember from the [program] was that every morning there would be a new, accomplished woman to talk to us, and tell us what her career journey had been like and the obstacles she has had to face. I have always remembered the impact that [guest speakers] had on me. Having those role models really solidified to me that I can have a career in STEM, and gave me the confidence to go to college, since I am a first-generation student, to accomplish those goals," said Danielle Amos, Patrick & Henry Community College program attendee. Danielle is double-majoring in biology and anthropology with a concentration in medical anthropology on a pre-med track at the University of Virginia.

"The program opened my understanding of technology, but also had a significant impact on my social development. When I first arrived, I was quite reserved, but the experience helped me out of my shell a bit and to explore my chosen career path more deeply," said Ricky Richardson, North Carolina A&T State University former program attendee, turned program mentor, now a program instructor. Ricky is pursuing an automotive engineering technology degree at North Carolina A&T State University.

"Before the program, I definitely didn't know about other career possibilities in STEM. It 100% helped my path up to now," said Ravion Lightfoot, Jackson State University program attendee. Ravion is now at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Verizon Innovative Learning is a key part of the company's responsible business efforts, with a goal to equip 10 million youth with digital skills training by 2030.