MiSTEM, MTEC SmartZone, Michigan State University and Beyond Consulting collaborate to advance innovation in STEM education across Michigan
LANSING, MI — General Motors (GM) has contributed $1 million to supplement a $750,000 grant supporting the MiSTEM Network to advance innovation in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) education in Michigan. The gift is focused on preparing Michigan students for high-demand careers in STEAM, and the funding from General Motors doubles the number of awardees and more than doubles the amount of funding available for the MiSTEM playbook program.
This strategic investment strengthens a public-private collaboration among General Motors, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s MiSTEM Network, MTEC SmartZone, Michigan State University and Beyond Consulting to build dynamic learning environments that connect students with real-world and in-demand industry experiences. MTEC SmartZone, a nonprofit innovation hub, is coordinating the administration of these funds, Michigan State University’s College of Education is supporting evaluation and Beyond Consulting is providing operational management in alignment with MiSTEM’s statewide goals.
“We are proud to support MiSTEM and its mission to educate and inspire the next generation of innovators,” said Rhonda Fields of GM Corporate Citizenship. “This initiative creates opportunities for students across Michigan to develop the skills and education they’ll need for high-growth careers in mobility, manufacturing and sustainability.”
This funding directly supports the state STEM strategy of place-, problem- and project-based learning aligned with Michigan’s strategic industries. These funds will be used to expand teacher training, student programming and community partnerships, while also helping to diversify access to STEM pathways, especially in underserved and rural areas.
“This partnership reflects the power of public-private collaboration,” said David Rowe, CEO of MTEC SmartZone. “Together, we’re expanding access to hands-on, authentic STEM experiences that help young people see themselves as creators, problem-solvers and future leaders.”
According to Megan Schrauben, MiSTEM Executive Director, “Grant outcomes and milestones will be tracked throughout the next two years. Updates regarding the progress being made will be offered to General Motors and the public.”
“This grant will expand opportunities for educators to be innovative with the direct support of their local regional MiSTEM directors who serve all over the state,” said Dr. Stefanie Marshall, Associate Professor of Science Education at Michigan State University, who will serve as the Director of the MiSTEM grant. “This funding is an opportunity to bridge local STEM innovations in K-12, professional learning, STEM partners and pathways to various STEM opportunities across Michigan.”
Dr. Marshall will work alongside Samantha Baruah, Principal Consultant at Beyond Consulting, on this endeavor.
“This partnership represents a critical step toward preparing Michigan students to excel in STEM-related fields,” said Baruah. “As a former multilingual leaner and school board director, I know the life-changing impact access to quality education can have. This initiative not only empowers students with the skills needed for success but also strengthens the STEM talent ecosystem with a more diverse, talented and innovation driven workforce.”
As Michigan invests in a more resilient, future-ready workforce, this effort plays a key role in equipping students with the tools and confidence to succeed in tomorrow’s economy. By aligning education with the needs of industry, the MiSTEM Network and its partners are working to close talent gaps and strengthen local communities across the state.
This level of investment would not have been possible without the generous support of GM Corporate Citizenship and the leadership of MiSTEM. Their shared commitment to advancing STEM opportunities across Michigan is helping to build a stronger, more equitable future for students, educators and our communities statewide.
For more information, visit the MiSTEM Network, GM Corporate Citizenship or MTEC SmartZone.
