Laisa Leao
Edwards’ Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program offered a four-week math summer program tailored to inspire and prepare incoming middle school and high school students for their upcoming math classes and STEM-related careers.
The program is called Promoting Relevance and Interest in Math Experiences, more often referred to as PRIME. The PRIME program was designed to help the local students gain a better understanding of math concepts necessary to be successful in their middle school and high school math classes. This includes non-traditional classroom time where students focus on analytical thinking and problem solving skills, as well as field trips to Edwards AFB, where students have an opportunity to meet Edwards employees who share how math is used in their jobs, what their career field entails and what type of education the students need to pursue in order to prepare for STEM careers.
Col. Douglas Wickert, 412th Test Wing Commander, meets Palmdale School District students enrolled in the PRIME summer program and shares how he applies Math and Engineering in his job.
All Palmdale School District incoming 6th graders and incoming 9th graders were eligible to apply, and the 60 offered spots where filled on a first-come, first served basis.
“Many students start the program with a certain resistance to math, triggered by the false concept that math can only be mastered by some. The program helps students understand that with practice, math can become intuitive," said Helida Haro Vanhoy, 412th Test Wing STEM Outreach Manager.
There has been a high demand for Aerospace Engineers, Mechanics, Data Analysts, and other occupations founded on mathematics in the Aerospace Valley. However, despite this need, there has been a shortage of local eligible candidates for decades, creating a barrier in the hiring process. By investing inspiring, engaging, and educating students from the local community, the 412th Test Wing is investing in the next generation of Airmen who will be ready to close this gap.
"The goal is not to merely teach math, but to also show the students how it’s applied by professionals in our local community, the Aerospace Valley,” said Vanhoy. “We are showing the students that STEM leads to interesting, solid and rewarding career fields.”
Edwards’ Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program offered a four-week math summer program tailored to inspire and prepare incoming middle school and high school students for their upcoming math classes and STEM-related careers. Col. Douglas Wickert, 412th Test Wing Commander, meet Palmdale School District students enrolled in the PRIME summer program and shares how he applies Math and Engineering in his job. Col. Douglas Wickert, 412th Test Wing Commander, meet Palmdale School District students enrolled in the PRIME summer program and shares how he applies Math and Engineering in his job. Col. Douglas Wickert, 412th Test Wing Commander, meet Palmdale School District students enrolled in the PRIME summer program and shares how he applies Math and Engineering in his job.