The University of Connecticut-University of Rhode Island Navy STEM Coalition

In 2017, the University of Connecticut (UConn) and the University of Rhode Island (URI) were awarded a grant from the Office of Naval Research to assist in expanding the naval science and technology workforces of Rhode Island and Connecticut.

Home to the Naval Submarine Base New London, the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, over 600 naval supply chain companies, and major production hubs for both Raytheon, and General Dynamics – Electric Boat, Rhode Island and Connecticut each play a vital role in the U.S. Navy’s supply chain. With submarine production expected to rise significantly in coming years, demand is growing for a large workforce of talented STEM professionals in the region.

In an effort to meet this need, our program supports engineering students as they pursue Navy-related careers by connecting them with valuable research and professional development opportunities. We also inspire students at the K-12 level to begin exploring naval science and technology by engaging them with hands-on learning experiences.

Our Goals

  • Provide engineering students with naval-relevant course content throughout their undergraduate program
  • Engage naval industry and government professionals to actively participate in the Navy STEM program
  • Contribute to K-12 STEM outreach activities in the region
  • Implement a capstone design program with industry and government sponsors to provide students with real-world experience
  • Provide naval-relevant research opportunities to encourage students to pursue advanced degrees
  • Create a tightly focused recruiting environment for students and employers

Partnerships

The range of projects and opportunities that the Navy STEM Program gives students access to are made possible thanks to the active support of the large and vibrant naval community based in Southern New England.

Understanding the need to address the urgent and growing demand for skilled Naval science and technology professionals, local leaders from the both the public and private sectors of the industry actively participate in the Navy STEM Program to develop the workforce of tomorrow by investing in and inspiring the young minds of today.