EMU Today

YPSILANTI – According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2019–29 employment projections, STEM field occupations are expected to grow 8% by 2029, compared to 3.7 percent for all occupations. To help spark a passion for more students to enter STEM careers, particularly those from traditionally underrepresented minority groups, Eastern Michigan University will host EMU STEM Day from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Friday, March 11 at Sill Hall, located on Eastern’s campus.

“The purpose of the event is to invite local students to participate in fun STEM activities, develop STEM skills, learn about STEM careers and education paths, and help them develop strong ties with EMU,” said Andrew Mansfield, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at EMU’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. “We hope that the students attending the STEM Day program will join a future cohort of students at EMU in a STEM field.”

Local students from Eastern’s Upward Bound program and Ypsilanti community schools will be divided into small teams and compete in various engineering-based events led by EMU student engineering clubs. The teams which earn the highest overall points will receive special awards and STEM-related prizes, including 3-D printed figures and flying drones.

EMU Upward Bound provides tutoring, career and college counseling, and mentorship to high schoolers at Ypsilanti Community High School year-round. The program recently celebrated its 50th year serving students in the area.  

“Our program doesn’t just supply students with academic support, but makes certain that they can make informed decisions about career paths,” said Upward Bound Program Director Rod Wallace. “We want our students to see STEM degrees and careers as attainable, fun, and rewarding. STEM Day activities allow students to see themselves collaborating and solving problems, which are everyday skills in STEM areas.”

EMU STEM Day is sponsored by GameAbove, National Defense Industrial Association and Domino's.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 16,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and, its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.