The future of the United States depends on its ability to prepare the next generation to be innovators in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Yet far too few students are prepared for the challenges ahead.
Dow believes the U.S. education system should lead the world. Our nation's science, technology, engineering and math training was once a U.S. strength. Dow's goal is to help return the nation to its leadership position by supporting transformational initiatives that make a difference for our students and academic institutions. As outlined in our Advanced Manufacturing Strategy, we will invest in and address obstacles to success through partnership with industry and the U.S. administration. Our commitments currently focus on the following major initiatives.
Commitments to Education
Change the Equation
Change the Equation (CTEq) is a non-profit, CEO-led initiative that answers the call of President Barack Obama's "Educate to Innovate Campaign" to move the U.S. to a leadership position in science and math education over the next decade. Dow has joined more than 100 other multi-national companies in this effort to enhance careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
Fast Start Training
Dow believes that advanced manufacturing is critical to the United States long-term competitiveness. Dow, like other companies dependent on a talented and innovative workforce, has a responsibility to use its expertise and resources to make the workforce stronger. We believe that public-private partnerships are critical to the developing and sustaining the workforce of the 21st Century. Dow’s contributions to the Fast Start training program are helping ensure that community colleges can act quickly to train employees in the skills they need to meet the needs of local manufacturers.
International Year of Chemistry 2011
Dow is proud to be a sponsor of IYC 2011, a year-long celebration offering a range of interactive, entertaining, and educational activities for all ages.
Keystone Center
Dow provides scholarships for teachers to attend workshops at The Keystone Center, a non-profit organization focused on solving our society's most challenging environmental, energy, and public health problems through public policy and education.
Smithsonian Institute
Through the Smithsonian Science Education Academies for Teachers, Dow supports the professional development of K-12 science educators in communities where Dow has a presence.
National Science Teachers Association
Dow is a sponsor of the NSTA's prestigious Robert H. Carleton Award for National Leadership in the Field of Science Education, and supports teacher training as well as science education materials.
Chemical Educational Foundation
Through Dow-supported programs like You Be The Chemist, the Chemical Educational Foundation makes chemistry concepts fun and easy for students and teachers.
Camp Invention Program
Dow supports science discovery among underserved 10, 11 and 12-year olds through Camp Invention.
Laboratory Safety Institute
Schools located in Dow site communities are sponsored for laboratory safety training provided by the Laboratory Safety Institute.