MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) acts as a "pipe-line" for technical education in Utah

What is MESA/STEP and what are its objectives?

MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) is the public education component of the MESA/STEP Consortium, a nonprofit organization comprised of higher education institutions, businesses/industries, public school districts, government agencies, and community organizations. The program acts as a "pipe-line" that aims to increase the number of underserved ethnic minority and all female students who pursue course work, advanced study and possible careers in mathematics, engineering, and science areas.

MESA is a 7-12 grade program (with about 3,000 students currently enrolled) administered by the Utah Office of Education which provides funds and guidance to participating school districts and charter schools. STEP (science, technology, engineering programs) is the higher education component which consists of: Salt Lake Community College, the University of Utah, Utah State University and Weber State University.

How does Utah compare to other states when it comes to employing women and minorities in math and science careers?

Among businesses, Utah has a good reputation for an educated work force. The state ranks 12th in the nation in the number of workers over 25 with at least a bachelor’s degree. And Utah-based businesses make a concerted effort to hire qualified women and minorities. Corporate representatives serve on our MESA/STEP Industry Advisory Council, and companies such as ATK Thiokol, Bard Access Systems, BD Medical, Boeing, CH2M Hill, Chevron-Texaco, EFI Electronics, Evans & Sutherland, Hospira, Intel, Intermountain Health Care, IOMEGA, L-3 Communications, Micron, Moog, Northrop Grumman, UNISYS, URS Corp., and Varian Medical Systems have provided volunteers, scholarship funds, and opportunities for internships and full-time employment.

KENNETH PETERSEN
Executive director, MESA/STEP

Full Story: http://www.sltrib.com/business/ci_2887987