Date posted: 10/01/2008*

NASA’s Future Forum traveled to the Museum of Science in Boston, Mass., last week. At the event, Lee Silvestre, IDS vice president Mission Innovation, participated in a panel discussion on the challenges facing the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) pipeline and how industry can help inspire students to pursue STEM careers.

Joining her distinguished colleagues on the “Inspiration” panel, Silvestre shared her perspective on reinforcing creativity and innovation in today’s workforce. Silvestre was quick to note that while creativity and innovation require the freedom to think “outside the box” and imagine the impossible, it is imperative that there be some process around the creativity cycle. “For innovation and creativity to thrive in a competitive industry, there must be a balance. It is that blending of the tangible business process with the intangible innovative concepts that truly brings about the most ground-breaking solutions,” said Silvestre.

Renewing and enhancing student interest in STEM careers was another topic that weaved through the panel discussion. In an interesting consensus among the panel, everyone agreed that leveraging the media and entertainment industry to promote STEM careers is a piece of the puzzle that cannot be ignored.

The panel also focused on a larger question about the need to revolutionize math and science education. Many agreed that shifting the curriculum focus from the traditional earth and physical sciences to an emphasis on man-made technology and engineering would be a necessary step in providing today’s students with the tools necessary to solve the problems of tomorrow.

Designed to celebrate NASA’s 50th anniversary, NASA’s series of one-day events focus on the past, present and future of NASA and its contributions to the nation for the advancement of science, technology, engineering, education and the economy. The events also highlight NASA’s Constellation Program, America’s return to the Moon and beyond.

Raytheon continues to be a key sponsor of the Future Forums and has showcased its own math and science initiatives through MathMovesU at each event.

MathMovesU (MMU) was prominently displayed at this NASA Future Forum. Approximately 125 students and teachers visited the MMU booth to learn about the program. On hand to provide information were eight MMU ambassadors from five IDS mission centers in Massachusetts.

The next Future Forum will be held at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago on Friday, October 10.

For more information visit NASA’s 50th Anniversary Future Forums.

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