MOST logoSTEM Career Exploration on Last Saturday of Each Month

Syracuse, NY (December 6, 2021) - The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) proudly partners with Amazon as the new presenting sponsor of its monthly Be the Scientist science education program.

Be the Scientist allows museum visitors to learn about and explore the activities of a different scientist each month. From marine biology to computer programming and beyond, the last Saturday of the month is a time for local STEM practitioners, faculty, and museum visitors to come together and explore new careers and frontiers in science and technology in a manner that is fun and engaging, exposing students to all the possibilities for a rewarding career in science.

“We are overwhelmed with excitement to work with Amazon and welcome them into our community,” said Lauren Kochian, MOST president. “Especially with a program like Be the Scientist, having funding to support career exploration makes a difference in the thousands of students we serve each year. Hands-on education is critical to fill a huge and growing STEM career pipeline, and Amazon’s support enables the MOST to continue to grow this program. We can’t thank Amazon enough for their contribution to the MOST.”

Be the Scientist topics in the past included “Be the Computer Scientist,” “Be the Engineer,” “Be the Roboticist,” and more. These topics align with the many career paths offered by businesses like Amazon and are great precursors for children to learn about their opportunities beyond grade school.

Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said, "By sponsoring the 'Be the Scientist' program at the MOST, Amazon is once again demonstrating their commitment to being a true community partner. We know that our future economy will rely heavily on making sure our kids receive a top-tier STEAM education and the MOST is a critical partner in that effort." McMahon continued, "Thank you to Amazon for their sponsorship and to Lauren Kochian and her team at the most for their unwavering commitment to preparing the next generation for the future."

“Amazon and MOST’s partnership serves as a shining example of how businesses in the community can come together to create unique opportunities for our young people,” said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh. “The expansion of the ‘Be the Scientist’ program will make a difference for our students here in the city and throughout the county as they begin early STEM career exploration.”

“At Amazon, we are passionate about increasing access to STEM and computer science education for children and young adults from underserved and underrepresented communities,” said Carley Graham Garcia, Head of External Affairs, Amazon New York. “MOST and Be the Scientist are unlocking new worlds of possibility for young people and we are excited to join with them in advancing that goal.”

Kochian noted that at the MOST, it is understood that there is a lack of representation of People of Color and women in STEM careers. The MOST recognizes the tremendous importance of connecting all the students supported to companies that require STEM education and training. Education research indicates that starting at a young age is critical. By exciting kids about science and exposing them to the opportunities, we are helping keep their interest in STEM careers.

Be the Scientist is offered on the last Saturday of each month at the MOST, plus one per school holiday week in February and April. This program is free and is offered during regular museum hours.

Learn more about the Be the Scientist program presented by Amazon here.

In April, Amazon announced a donation of $1.75 million toward a new STEAM high school in Onondaga County, New York. With a new robotics fulfillment center coming to the county this fall, a project that will create more than 1,000 local jobs, Amazon is furthering its commitment to STEM education by investing in the community and giving students tools to build their best future.

 

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