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Students throughout the region are getting an early start on STEM education exposure thanks to initiatives overseen by 51����’s . 

Co-led by Jen Bowman, the school’s director of environmental programs, in conjunction with the of the , the efforts run the gamut of promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

“The goal of the Southeast Ohio OSLN Regional Hub’s work is to expand equitable access to high-quality STEM education by supporting schools at every level of implementation—from initial awareness to full schoolwide integration,” Bowman said.

“The hub aims to grow interest in STEM, deepen related practices, and support model schools through responsive services, professional development and strategic partnerships with educators, communities and industry. Ultimately, the work is designed to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and meet the evolving needs of Ohio’s students and workforce,” Bowman said.

OHIO’s efforts are co-led by Stephanie Miller, associate professor of instruction in biological sciences and STEMstart co-director, and Jennifer Hileman, assistant professor of instruction in environmental studies.

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A couple of recent examples of the Voinovich School’s outreach on its many STEM initiatives include a Science Network Professional Development event held at the Gallia County Educational Service Center and the OSLN #STEMmovesOhio Design Challenge held in September.

The latter event was co-hosted by the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition.

“We’re proud to partner with 51���� and the Ohio STEM Learning Network for the 2025 OSLN Design Challenge to help connect educators with the industries shaping our region,” Coalition Associate Director Cecily Fyffe said.

“By bringing industry professionals together with teachers during the Southeast Regional Kickoff at AOMC, we’re helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. The OSLN Design Challenge is a great way to encourage students to think creatively and develop solutions to real-world scenarios; skills that are essential for success in today’s workforce,” she added. “This collaboration ensures students are exposed to the technologies, problem-solving, and career paths that drive opportunity and growth across southeast Ohio.”

The Design Challenge event also attracted by WTAP.

Online STEM resources

A new online resource for educators posted on the Voinovich School website offers local educators access to several other items to assist local schools with STEM education offerings. The site includes links with contact information, event sign-ups and the many resources available through OHIO’s public-private STEM partnership.

In addition, reservations for no-cost Portable Innovation Labs (PILs) can be submitted through the .

The Ohio STEM Learning Network operates as a partnership overseen by the and , a global research and development organization headquartered in Columbus.