On January 24, BioTN, Life Science Tennessee, and other advocates for STEM education will host high schools and middle schools from Tennessee for the inaugural STEM Day on the Hill at the State Capitol. The purpose of this event is to underscore the significance of STEM education and career development in the state, ultimately contributing to the building of a robust economy in Tennessee.

For this inaugural event, we will create a science fair-like environment with five to seven high schools and middle schools. Each school is invited to bring five to seven students to participate in a science project of their choosing. The event will take place on the 8th floor of the Cordell Hull Building, the office building where legislators hold their offices and committee meetings. Throughout the day, legislators will be invited to attend the event and listen to presentations from students at their respective tables. Lunch and snacks will be available, and there will be meetings of the Tennessee Senate and House Education Committee, during which group members will make presentations and participate. Additionally, a promotional table will be set up in the building’s cafeteria directing legislators to the 8th floor meeting room.

Event Details:

  • What: Tennessee STEM Day on the Hill
  • Who: Tennessee high school and middle school students, BioTN, Life Science Tennessee, and STEM education advocates
  • When: Wednesday, January 24, 2024
  • Where: Cordell Hull Building, Tennessee State Capitol, 425 Rep. John Lewis Way, Nashville

The Importance of STEM Education in Tennessee

STEM careers are the primary drivers of economic advancement in the U.S. and are key to building a stronger economy for Tennesseans. Research indicates that a focus on STEM education enables students to develop skills needed for high-demand jobs in the U.S., addressing labor market gaps and expanding economic opportunities. Moreover, those working in STEM fields generally earn higher wages than their non-STEM counterparts.

BioTN STEM Assessment Report

BioTN recently released a STEM Assessment Report analyzing the state of science, technology, engineering, and math-based professions in Tennessee.

The report assesses our education system’s preparedness to meet the rising demand for STEM-focused workers in high-wage positions. It emphasizes that ensuring an adequate number of qualified STEM workers, as well as increased participation from underrepresented groups, requires a strategic focus on K-12 STEM education and improved access to college preparatory programs that promote STEM careers.

About BioTN

BioTN is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote knowledge of and education in STEM and the biosciences within the state of Tennessee and beyond. The organization also focuses on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in STEM and the biosciences, emphasizing the positive impact of STEM on human health. For more information, visit www.biotn.org.

For additional information or to participate, please contact Abby Trotter at abby.trotter@biotn.org or Missy Bunch at missybunch@gmail.com