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July 30, 2025
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.
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About General Motors
General Motors is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.
About MiSTEM Network
The MiSTEM Network connects education, business and community partners to prepare Michigan students for high-demand careers through place-based, project-based and problem-based learning. By aligning STEM education with real-world industry needs, the Network equips students with the skills and experiences needed to thrive in a rapidly changing workforce.
About MTEC
Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) is one of 21 SmartZone Incubators in the State of Michigan. MTEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Its mission is to facilitate the creation and ongoing success of high-tech value propositions in conjunction with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since 2003, the MTEC SmartZone has provided mentoring, technical support and other services to local companies, leading to the creation of over 800 high-tech jobs in the Houghton and Hancock, Michigan area.
About Michigan State University College of Education
The College of Education at Michigan State University is a community of students, educators and researchers prepared to meet the challenges of education and kinesiology. We are committed to improving practice together through exemplary research, teaching and service. With a renowned Teacher Preparation Program, rigorous training for health-related careers and several nationally ranked graduate programs, the College of Education prepares leaders who make an extraordinary impact on health, well-being and education around the world.
About Beyond Consulting
Beyond Consulting, LLC is a dynamic consulting firm specializing in program and project management across multiple sectors, including higher education, K–12 education, healthcare, government and STEM industries. Our team has over 20 years of experience managing complex initiatives offering strategic advising in process improvement, organizational management, data analysis, and systems implementation.
Media Contact:
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