Chris Moore, the CEO of FIRST, a global community that prepares young people aged 4-18 for the future through inclusive, team-based robotics programs, emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities in shaping children’s futures. Moore reflects on his own experience with baseball, which taught him valuable lessons in teamwork, communication, and resilience that have influenced his life and career. He believes that the decisions parents and caregivers make regarding in-school and after-school activities for their children can have a significant impact on their academic and career interests and success.
STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) engagement opportunities are crucial for preparing students for the growing number of STEM jobs in the future. While traditional sports have long been seen as valuable for teaching teamwork and problem-solving skills, activities like youth robotics offer similar benefits and opportunities to hone critical thinking skills. Moore encourages businesses to support extracurricular activities that build students’ science and technology acumen, as STEM jobs are projected to see significant growth in the coming years.
Business leaders can play a critical role in engaging students in STEM activities by creating incentives, offering sneak peeks into STEM career fields, and reaching out to underserved communities to increase access to STEM education. Providing mentorship, resources, and opportunities for hands-on learning can help motivate students to pursue STEM fields and ultimately fill in-demand roles in the workforce. Supporting classrooms with grants for STEM-related afterschool activities, such as robotics programs and science clubs, can also help build a pipeline of future STEM professionals.
Moore emphasizes the importance of getting students excited about science and technology not just for workforce development but also for fostering the resilience and skills needed to navigate challenges and build a better world. Encouraging young people to pursue STEM fields can lead to stronger, more resilient adults who can make a positive impact on society using their talents in science and technology. Whether as parents, professionals, or business leaders, everyone has a role to play in empowering the next generation to thrive in STEM careers and contribute to a brighter future.
