STEM Journey: Empower
Immersive STEM learning for Grades 8–10 that builds confidence, leadership, and career awareness through hands-on projects, mentorship, and real-world exploration.
*Yearly cohort registration windows opens as early as March and September
Program Overview
Empower engages youth in Grades 8–10 through immersive STEM learning experiences that strengthen confidence, teamwork, and career awareness. The program is anchored by a six-week summer intensive each year, featuring hands-on exploration, leadership development, and exposure to real-world STEM environments through field trips and guest workshops. The program typically begins during the summer between Grades 8 and 9, when many youth first join the Empower cohort.
During the school year, youth remain connected through mentorship, academic enrichment, and community projects that deepen their STEM learning. The summer following Grade 10 serves as a transition experience where youth participate in job shadowing and focused professional development to prepare for internships in STEM Journey: Launch.
Program Registration Dates
Applications typically open in the spring, as early as March, with most registration taking place between April and May.
If no programs are listed, the application window may not be open yet. Please check back regularly for updates.
What To Expect
Hands-on STEM modules exploring real-world challenges through teamwork and creative problem solving.
Leadership and social-emotional learning that builds communication, collaboration, and confidence.
Mentorship and career exploration through guest speakers, field visits, and STEM role models.
Youth-led projects addressing real-world community challenges, culminating in a summer showcase.
What Participants are Saying
“The program made me believe I can do well in science. I learned new things that I didn’t know before. It showed me that I can solve problems and think like a scientist. Meeting scientists and doing hands-on experiments gave me more confidence. I now feel more excited about a future in STEM. "
“I can bring the skills I developed in this program back to my community by helping organize STEM workshops at local schools, initiating community tech projects, and helping students interested in STEM careers."
“The trips were my favorite part of the program. We went to different places, and each one showed us something new about science. It was fun to explore and learn outside the classroom. Seeing real-world science made me more interested in STEM. The trips helped me understand how science is all around us.”
Program FAQs
Common questions from youth and families interested in STEM Journey: Empower.
Register for Empower
Build STEM skills, leadership, and career awareness through immersive projects and mentorship.
