Page 2 - 2013 AISES Annual Report Flipbook
P. 2
OUR MISSIONThe mission of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) is to substantially increase the representation of American Indians and Alaska Natives in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) studies and careers.WHY OUR MISSION IS CRITICALIn order to remain competitive in the global economy, technical innovation, sustained by a workforce highly educated in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), is vital. As such, here in the U.S., we must utilize and maximize all ofour talent. Unfortunately, American Indians and Alaska Natives are dramatically underrepresented in the STEM fields, which limits the future success of our children while also reducing the ability the U.S. to compete in the world of tomorrow. Case in point, in a 2012 article that appeared in the New York Times, Apple executives pointed out that much of the iPhone manufacturing was not here in the U.S. because “China provided engineers at a scale the United States could not match.1” Apple’s executives estimated that about 8,700 industrial engineers were needed. The company’s analysts had forecast it would take as long as nine months to find that many qualified engineers in the United States. It is becoming abundantly clear that we need to train and retain the best and brightest STEM professionals here in the U.S. if we are to maintain a competitive edge.By connecting with American Indian and Alaska Native students in middle andhigh school, the goal of AISES is to interest and engage them in STEM at an early age. AISES provides huge opportunities in the STEM disciplines. We have awarded over $8 million in scholarships to nearly 5,000 students and provided a myriad of ways for members to connect with mentors and peers across the AISES family. Our unique programs give middle and high school students the chance to participate in nationally recognized STEM events like Science Fairs and Science Bowls—fostering and rewarding their talents. Our College Program combines scholarships, student representatives, mentoring, leadership training, and internships. The Professional Program helps members find employment, make contacts, and broaden networks through our National Conference—a one-of-a-kind event that offers community, workshops, and networking. It brings the whole AISES family—pre-college, college, and professionals together to learn from one another, sharing wisdom with the young as our ancestors taught us.1 Barboza, David, Peter Lattman, and Catherine Rampell. “How the U.S. Lost Out on IPhone Work.” New York Times 24 Jan. 2012: n. pag. Print. Accessible: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/22/business/apple-america-and-a- squeezed-middle-class.html?pagewanted=allOur Mission


































































































   1   2   3   4   5