The national laboratories have a strong role in helping to prepare the future workforce through partnerships in STEM education. As one of the world’s premier laboratories for scientific discovery and technology solutions, PNNL is uniquely suited to engage and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. PNNL’s Office of STEM Education implements a number of educational and outreach programs throughout the region and with a variety of community partners. Included are opportunities for students, educators, and the community; all inspire exploration of and excitement for the sciences via career-focused, hands-on STEM learning experiences.

PNNL’s signature efforts include:

• STEM Outreach
• STEM Equity and Inclusion
• Professional Development for Educators
• DOE Workforce Development
• Computing Science Education

Efforts also include ongoing collaboration with regional partners, including local school districts, higher education institutions, and other STEM partners. Recent efforts include the STEM Ambassadors @ PNNL initiative—a development program for PNNL researchers that provides them communications tools and resources for sharing their passion for science with the K–12 community—and computing education programs for grades 7–12 students and educators.

The laboratory’s STEM education efforts align with the DOE’s Office of Science, Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists mission [link to current link that says “Source”] to engage in a broad range of activities with K–12 STEM educators and students. These activities aim to support a diverse workforce that is well prepared and able to meet the growing demand for STEM skills across the nation.