Today’s students are tomorrow’s experts. That’s why Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is dedicated to developing career pathways, education, and resources to develop the future, diverse workforce in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) at the Department of Energy, to meet the future needs of the nation. 

PNNL STEM Education guides a portfolio of programs designed to inspire the next generation, equip educators who mentor and teach students, and develop partnerships that create diverse pathways for STEM careers.

National laboratories are situated at a unique intersection of collaborative research due to their state-of-the-art scientific facilities, world-class instruments in our laboratories, and the multidisciplinary teams that come together to take on science challenges of our day. It’s where people come to do the world-changing work of science in a way unlike any other institution. PNNL STEM Education welcomes educators and students into the world of national lab research, creating opportunities to ignite curiosity, learn about science, and grow in research skills. We’re out to change the world and doing it hand-in-hand with the future generation of science experts. 

• STEM Outreach: PNNL’s staff are passionate about sharing their amazing science with the public to ignite passion, increase interest, and enhance knowledge of STEM. Our programs are crafted to drive curiosity in the next generation by partnering with STEM organizations in our community, middle schools, high schools, and STEM educators. 
• STEM Workforce Development: PNNL partners with higher education institutions and K-12 educators to foster the next generation of scientists and engineers from diverse backgrounds. Welcoming nearly 1,500 interns annually and partnering with faculty nationwide for research impact, our STEM Workforce Development portfolio includes a range of opportunities that operate throughout the year.