supporting STEM education and workforce development in the tri-state region of pennsylvania, ohio and west virginia
The Appalachia Partnership Initiative (API) invests in programs that engage students in science, technology, engineering and math in preparation for careers in the region's high-demand occupations.
Support for post-secondary programs focuses on workforce development training, apprenticeships, and certifications in energy and advanced manufacturing industries.
a shortage of STEM-skilled workers to fill open and anticipated jobs
340,000 workers needed
a lack of understanding of the importance of STEM education, especially in rural areas
our goal is to engage, mobilize and catalyze a community of leaders across multiple sectors
hands-on learning experiences
API partners with non-profit organizations like Project Lead the Way (PLTW), which provides students with unique opportunities for STEM learning, often in hands-on environments.
Through transformative STEM-learning experiences, pre-K through 12th grade students develop critical-thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and analytical skills. What’s especially unique to the program is its support for teachers, who undergo rigorous training.
“Our support for STEM education helps communities prosper and engages many people in the process,” said Janet Auer, who manages education partnerships supported by Chevron. “We encourage students to think about how STEM can create a better future for themselves and do great things that benefit us all.”
Most recently, Chevron continued its commitment to innovative educational experiences in January 2019, expanding its support of PLTW programs with $1 million in grants to several Pennsylvania schools.
Frazier School District in Fayette County started PLTW classes in 2013, and now offers the program to students in elementary school through high school.
access to cutting-edge technology
API focuses on 27 counties in pennsylvania, ohio and west virginia.
This initiative aims to create multiple pathways for residents to access education, training and career opportunities.
A key strategy is to support innovative teaching and share expertise, curricula and technology across the region, with an emphasis on the inclusion of rural communities.
API funding supports the region with sustainable access to a variety of STEM and workforce training programs
advancing STEM education
API programs like Project Lead the Way has provided more than $3.5 million in grants to sustain existing programs and implemented new PLTW initiatives in 107 elementary, middle and high schools.
increasing technical skills
For example, Catalyst Connection ($424,000 invested to-date) supports apprenticeship programs in advanced manufacturing and supports professional development for educators interested in teaching students about the manufacturing industry.
Since 2014, Chevron has provided $19 million to API - with millions co-funded by API partners - which has also attracted support from other private companies as well as non-profits and public funding sources.
Published: October 2017