Amazon Invests in STEM Education Programs for Underserved Youth
Amazon has announced significant investments in various STEM education programs aimed at supporting children and adults from underserved communities across the United States. Through its initiative, the Amazon Future Engineer, the company is focused on enhancing access to quality education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), with millions of students benefiting each year.
The range of programs under this initiative caters to different age groups and educational backgrounds, ensuring that individuals at various stages of their learning journey can find suitable resources. Below are some of the key components of Amazon’s commitment to STEM education.
Comprehensive Learning Opportunities
One of the standout programs is AWS Educate, which is designed for learners aged 13 and older. This platform provides a free, structured learning path to acquire in-demand skills in cloud computing and artificial intelligence. Participants can navigate their educational journey without any prior technical experience.
For adults aged 18 and over, the AWS Skills Centers offer in-person learning opportunities. These centers include interactive exhibits and classrooms for free, instructor-led training. The Seattle location, for instance, features engaging technology demonstrations, such as a giant globe visualizing global data and a robotic arm operated via cloud instructions.
Another noteworthy initiative is AWS re/Start, which is a cohort-based training program aimed at unemployed or underemployed individuals. This program, also for those aged 18 and above, equips participants with the necessary technical skills for entry-level cloud roles without requiring a background in technology. Participants benefit from hands-on labs and professional skills training, including resume and interview coaching.
Innovative Programs for Young Learners
Amazon also targets younger students through various initiatives. The Amazon JumpStart program provides high school students from underserved backgrounds with paid apprenticeship opportunities. This program not only offers real-world work experience but also aims to enhance career prospects.
Another creative program, the AWS Girls’ Tech Series, encourages girls and young women aged 8 to 24 to explore careers in technology. Through workshops and interactive sessions, participants are inspired to engage with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) fields.
The AWS Academy offers a free, ready-to-teach cloud computing curriculum to higher education institutions, preparing students for industry-recognized certifications. This program ensures educators can provide students with the skills needed for success in one of the fastest-growing job sectors.
For middle school students, the We Build It Better program introduces the product development process, equipping participants with the skills to tackle real-world challenges.
Scholarships and Teacher Support
To further bolster its educational initiatives, Amazon offers the Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, which awards high school seniors a substantial $40,000 scholarship along with the opportunity for a paid summer internship at Amazon. This scholarship aims to foster diversity in the technology industry by supporting students from underrepresented communities.
Additionally, the Amazon Future Engineer Teacher Ambassador Program provides a paid fellowship for teachers, enhancing access to computer science education across diverse student populations. Selected teachers receive professional development and resources to promote computer science among their students.
In collaboration with BootUp Professional Development, Amazon also partners with school districts to implement sustainable computer science initiatives, ensuring that educators have the tools and training necessary to support their students effectively.
Through these multifaceted programs, Amazon is not only investing in the future of technology but also working to create a more inclusive and diverse workforce. By providing an array of educational resources and opportunities, the company aims to unlock the potential of countless individuals and cultivate the next generation of innovators.
