STEM Starter Academy

Assabet Valley Technical High School Students visiting the Advanced Manufacturing Lab (photos)

The STEM Starter Academy (SSA) program is an initiative of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) that began in 2013 through the leadership of Speaker Robert A. DeLeo and support from the Massachusetts Legislature. In partnership with the Commonwealth’s community college system, the purpose of STEM Starter Academy is to recruit, ready, retain and graduate a diverse body of students earning STEM certificates and degrees who go on to transfer to a 4-year STEM programs and/or enter the workforce.

The Importance of STEM in Massachusetts 

Jobs that require a strong foundation in STEM education are increasing in number, expanding into new fields and transforming traditional careers. Massachusetts needs a robust, diverse and growing STEM workforce to sustain our economy and advance the Commonwealth’s reputation for innovation, globally

STEM Starter Academy at QCC

• STEM-focused recruitment strategies emphasizing the exciting opportunities in engineering, technology, computing & information technology, sciences & math.
• Support & information sessions: Learn about our QCC Mentoring Program, Subject Tutoring Center, Math Center, Student Accessibility Services, counseling, resume assistance, transfer options, free summer transfer program @ state schools, QCC clubs & activities, etc.
• Advising Support: Freshman are assigned to an Academic Advisor and second year+ students are assigned to a STEM Faculty Advisor.
• Monthly support with STEM Starter Academy Student Liaison, Kristyn Norris. knorris [at] qcc.mass.edu  
• QCC Mentoring Program with Kalan Lewis at klewis [at] qcc.mass.edu
• Summer Bridge Program in July. Freshman First Year Experience Course with a STEM focus. Contact Darcy Carlson: dcarlson [at] qcc.mass.edu
• Computer Orientation in August for incoming freshman. Learn all about the computer programs QCC has to offer. Meet the computer faculty. Contact Darcy Carlson: dcarlson [at] qcc.mass.edu
• Research & Internship Opportunities.
• Industry Field Trips & STEM Workshops. 
• MASS Teach Program.
• 2-4 Year Transfer Program.