Reps. Kildee, Meijer Introduce Bill to Expand STEM Education

WASHINGTON-Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus and member of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology, along with Congressman Peter Meijer (MI-03) introduced the bipartisan Advanced Technological Manufacturing Actto expand science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education opportunities for students across America.

The Advanced Technological Manufacturing Acthelps support and prepare students at community colleges for jobs in STEM fields by:

'In order to be successful in the twenty-first century economy, many jobs require some post-secondary education. Our new bipartisan legislation will help community colleges across America, including right here in Michigan, compete for federal grants to expand STEM education programs,' said Congressman Kildee. 'I'm proud to work with Congressman Meijer on this bipartisan legislation to invest in STEM education and ensure our students can find good-paying jobs in the global economy.'

'All students deserve access to opportunities in the STEM fields,' said Congressman Meijer. 'I'm proud to join Congressman Kildee in this bipartisan effort to expand higher education STEM programs in West Michigan's community colleges. In order to remain competitive in the 21st Century economy, we must continue to increase our investments in programs that support students in science, engineering, math, and technology.'

'The Advanced Technological Manufacturing Act is an important step in ensuring our nation's ability to compete successfully in the global economy,' said Mott Community College President, Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea. 'This bill will increase the ability for community colleges to train people for the professional trades that are the foundation of our economic strength and build our workforce of tomorrow, today. We thank Congressman Kildee for his work to support Mott Community College and the local economy.'

'Delta College has a strong focus on educating both high school and college students for STEM jobs. The Great Lakes Bay Region has a concentration of businesses that require a trained employee pipeline, and community colleges stand ready to prepare students for today's and tomorrow's jobs. Through our College's interactions directly with the business community, and the support provided through the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education program, Delta College is confident we can nimbly respond to the regional economy's need for high-tech employees,' said Delta College President, Dr. Jean Goodnow.

'I am pleased to see that this legislation will open up stronger avenues of access for many more students to engage with STEM education and training programs, and particularly with programs in our community colleges. This access will not only help us prepare our students for careers in growing and emerging fields, but it will also strengthen our communities,' said Grand Rapids Community College President, Dr. Bill Pink.