The STEM Next Career-Connected Learning Framework helps youth understand the world of work, build critical life skills, and imagine themselves in a range of future possibilities. Afterschool and summer programs are uniquely positioned to support this journey. With flexible learning environments and strong community connections, these programs can introduce youth to careers early on and deepen that engagement over time in ways that feel personal, relevant, and inspiring. Learn more at stemnext.org/career-connected-learning-framework.
Download the Report
Read the Report on Career-Connected Learning by Aria Heyneman
Featured Speakers
Sabrina Gomez: STEM Education Advisor at STEM Next Foundation, founder and principal consultant of STEMHigher, previously the Senior Director at ExpandED schools in New York City where she led local and national initiatives that empowered youth to achieve success in STEM fields, she also co-led the NYC STEM Learning Ecosystem.
Fred von Ahrens: Served as Vice President of Manufacturing at Genesis Alkali in Green River, WY. With over 40 years of experience at Genesis Energy, he held multiple roles in engineering, maintenance, operations, plant management, and general management. He’s a board member of the Wyoming Charter School Authorizing Board and played a pivotal role in establishing the Pulse of Southwest Wyoming, an initiative aimed to inform regional legislators about crucial business, health, and education legislation and initiatives important to communities. Van Ahrens has also played a role in forming the Southwest Wyoming Manufacturing Partnership. Other past memberships include the governor’s RIDE intuitive, Chair of the Wyoming Business Alliance, and a board member of the Sweetwater Memorial Hospital Foundation. He is a recent member of the Wyoming State Board of Education.
About the Time to Thrive Conversation Series: The Wyoming Enrichment Network convened the Time to Thrive conversation series to inspire and connect adults who work with or engage young people grow in after school, on weekends, during the summer, and in every space where learning happens. Together, we explored how organizations and adults can deepen developmental relationships, build adult capacity to mentor and inspire youth, and create connected, career-relevant pathways.
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