Introduction

The primary purpose of our quarterly meetings is to engage in local dialogues about how we can increase the quality of STEM education; the quantity of STEM educated graduates that are eligible for employment in the Aerospace and Defense(A&D) industries; and the amount and effectiveness of engagement by A&D employers, working in partnership with others in their communities.

Previous meetings have demonstrated the productiveness of bringing together participants in the national level AIA and NDIA workforce efforts with state and local STEM workforce and education stakeholders, to share best practices, expand the “toolbox” of ideas for engaging the community; and discuss issues and solutions. I hope you will be able to attend the meeting and come away with some great ideas and action plans.