A crisp studio photograph of a whiteboard covered in handwritten equations and scientific diagrams, with a dark green eraser resting on the ledge, set against a clean neutral backdrop.

STEM Programs & Connections

nConnect Northwest bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world STEM careers. Our programs bring science and engineering professionals into high school classrooms, create internship pathways, and build lasting school-to-business partnerships across Southwest Washington.

Core Programs

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Mentoring

Science and engineering professionals are matched with AP science and math classes at area high schools. Mentors provide academic support, share career insights, and inspire students to pursue STEM pathways. Participating districts include Evergreen, Vancouver, Camas, La Center, Kelso, and Longview.

Become a Mentor →
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Internships

Students gain real-world experience through internships with local businesses and organizations. These opportunities allow young people to apply classroom knowledge in professional settings, build workplace skills, and explore potential career paths in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Explore Opportunities →
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School to Business

We connect classroom learning directly to future careers by facilitating partnerships between schools and local industry. These connections help students understand the relevance of their coursework and introduce them to the skills employers value in the modern workforce.

Partner With Us →
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CRLEs

Career-Related Learning Experiences give students structured exposure to professional environments. Through job shadows, industry tours, and career panels, students connect academic subjects to tangible career opportunities and develop a clearer vision for their futures.

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How It Works

1

Connect

Schools and businesses reach out to nConnect. We identify needs and match professionals with classrooms based on subject expertise and location.

nConnect's STEM programs are designed to bridge the gap between what students learn in the classroom and the real-world demands of science, technology, engineering, and math careers. By bringing professionals directly into high school classrooms, the organization creates meaningful connections that inspire students to pursue rigorous academic subjects. Mentors share their career journeys, offer academic support, and help students see how advanced coursework leads to exciting opportunities. This hands-on approach not only strengthens understanding of STEM concepts but also builds confidence and curiosity. Students gain a clearer picture of the pathways available to them, from college majors to future careers in fields that drive innovation and economic growth.

Beyond the classroom, nConnect builds lasting partnerships between schools and local businesses to create internship and job-shadowing opportunities for high school students. These experiences allow young people to apply their learning in professional environments, developing skills that cannot be taught from a textbook alone. Students learn to collaborate, communicate, and solve problems alongside experienced mentors. For businesses, getting involved means investing in the next generation of skilled workers and innovators. This school-to-business connection strengthens the entire community, ensuring that students are prepared to step into meaningful roles in the regional workforce after graduation.

Volunteering with nConnect offers professionals a chance to make a direct impact on the lives of students. Whether mentoring in a classroom, hosting a worksite visit, or participating in career panels, volunteers help demystify STEM fields and show students what is possible. The organization values the diverse perspectives and expertise that volunteers bring, and it provides training and support to ensure every mentor feels prepared. For many volunteers, the experience is as rewarding as it is for the students. They witness growth, curiosity, and determination firsthand, and they play a key role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow, one student at a time.

The impact of nConnect's programs extends far beyond test scores and graduation rates. Students who participate gain exposure to career possibilities they may not have considered, and they develop the academic habits and professional skills needed to succeed in college and beyond. Teachers benefit from having additional expertise and support in the classroom, while businesses cultivate a pipeline of talented, motivated young people ready to enter the workforce. This collaborative model creates a ripple effect throughout the community, strengthening the local economy and fostering a culture of innovation. nConnect believes that every student deserves the chance to become a future leader and innovator.

2

Engage

Volunteers commit 2–4 hours per month from October through May, working directly with students in AP science and math courses.

3

Grow

Students build confidence, explore STEM careers, and gain the skills needed to become tomorrow's innovators and leaders.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Whether you're a professional eager to share your expertise, a teacher looking to enrich your classroom, or a business ready to invest in the future workforce — there's a place for you at nConnect.

Get Involved