Data presented in the Brookings Metro Commonwealth of Innovation report shows that access to Pennsylvania’s innovation economy is unequal by race, gender, and location (with less than 1% of R&D happening outside of major university-driven innovation hubs).
Venango County Commissioner Chip Abramovic and CMU RISS cohosted a series of informal conversations exploring opportunities and barriers in STEM. Commissioner Abramovic stated the importance of working across silos and finding solutions, “If we do not work today to identify and bridge the gaps, Pennsylvania will be left behind in the national and global economy.”
“Conversations with the RI Summer Scholars included scholars from PA rural and urban spaces, multiple states, and four countries. While we each had different lived experiences, we noted the large number of shared stories highlighting the impact of mentoring and a broader system of support that shaped our journeys” noted Rachel Burcin.
These STEM dialogues have rotated from sites in Venango County to CMU’s Pittsburgh campus and the Pittsburgh region. December conversations will gather the Franklin and CMU communities to explore equity and opportunity in STEM.
Pennsylvania Robotics Scholars 2022 Pilot included: Anisa Callis* (Pittsburgh), Kaylie Barber (Volant), Kylie Barber (Volant), Joel Julin (Slippery Rock), and William Scott (Upper Darby)