NEWS
3/4/2010 10:49:00 AM
Project Lead the Way grows 23 percent
| |
|
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is leading more and more Iowa students into its series of middle and high school classes that blend science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
In 2009, participation in the program, which was created in response to government estimates that there will be a shortage of 15 million engineers and technical workers by the year 2015, grew by 23 percent in Iowa.
The program grew for the fifth consecutive year and served 11,000 students in 100 Iowa schools. Just two years ago, 6,800 students were participating in the program.
"Experience in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is vital to students as they prepare for college and the work force," said David Rethwisch, PLTW Iowa affiliate director.
Rethwisch said that more than half of the engineers and scientists in the United States are nearing retirement, and job openings requiring expertise in STEM will increase by 18.3 percent through 2014.
"Technical industries are in desperate need of workers who will be responsible for innovation and economic growth," Rethwisch said. "The commitment and dedication of Iowa school students, teachers and administrators are to be applauded."
Leaders of the program plan to continue the program's expansion in 2010. The Iowa Department of Economic Development, Department of Education and 15 community colleges are working together to fuel the program by forming partnerships with schools and businesses across the state.
For more information about the PLTW efforts in Iowa, click here.
|
Article Comment Submission Form
|
|
