BGSU continuing summer program for high school, college educators to grow interest in STEM careers

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – Entering its third year, the Bowling Green State University Research Experience for Teachers program is recruiting its third cohort of high school teachers and community college instructors from across Ohio and the Midwest to participate in its summer program designed to grow student interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics – or STEM – careers.

Funded by a National Science Foundation grant, the BGSU program has, to date, supported a total of 28 educators with hands-on research projects and presentations, innovative curriculum development workshops and industry tours in the advanced manufacturing and robotics sector.

"BGSU is committed to supporting the ever-growing science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields through our world-class faculty and innovative academic programs," said Dr. MD Sarder, professor in the BGSU College of Technology, Architecture and Applied Engineering and the grant's principal investigator. "By collaborating with and training educators who teach in these disciplines, BGSU will enhance STEM education for students in various communities while inspiring the next generation of leaders to pursue in-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and robotics."

This summer’s program will provide 12 high school or community college educators who teach STEM subjects with up to $6,700 to participate in the programming over six weeks starting on June 9, 2025.

Selected participants will also develop and implement an instructional module based on advanced manufacturing and robotics for their classrooms to inspire students to pursue STEM careers, with partial funding and supplies provided through the BGSU program.

Home to longstanding programs in applied engineering, BGSU this fall launched three degrees in robotics engineering, electronics and computer engineering and mechanical and manufacturing engineering to support Ohio’s growing workforce needs in the expanding fields.

Offered through the BGSU School of Engineering, the three programs empower students with a comprehensive, differentiated education that pairs the fundamentals of engineering design with strong foundations in math and science. Students also acquire practical, hands-on engineering expertise in the classroom and in the field, enhancing their appeal to future employers.

BGSU is further elevating engineering education through the investment in the cutting-edge Technology Engineering Innovation Center, which will feature seven large-scale specialty labs to facilitate engaged learning on the latest robotics and engineering technology. Set for completion in Spring 2026, the facility will also house ultra-modern, adaptable classrooms and collaboration space to support quality teaching and creative activities.

For more information and to apply, visit BGSU.edu/retworkshop.