Introduction

The 2007 Conference “Building the Foundation: Maximizing, Revitalizing, and Empowering STEM Initiatives” is the beginning of a new era for NAMEPA. Twenty eight years ago, NAMEPA launched its efforts to increase the effectiveness and awareness of mathematics, science, and engineering programs to educators, corporations, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. The organization was committed to increasing the number of scientists and engineers from traditionally under-represented minority groups by providing a comprehensive overview of the total minority engineering effort and the challenges inherent in developing a minority engineer. Today, NAMEPA has expanded its efforts by reaching out to its partners to establish greater programs with a commitment of academic excellence for all students.

The conference will highlight the technological change that affected our lives, our communication, our workforce and global development. Workshops will focus on areas such as the diversity of STEM education; developments in the field of nanotechnology; the future of the engineering workforce; and program funding.