STEM Goes Red: Building Our Future Workforce

What is a STEM Goes Red? 

First off, what is STEM Goes Red? STEM Goes Red is the American Heart Association’s strong legacy of science, education, and discovery. It offers an immersive experience that propels 7-9th-grade students into the exciting world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). STEM Goes Red empowers young scholars to pursue STEM careers while preparing them with the tools and resources they need to live longer, healthier lives.

Chelsey first got involved through a professional contact who invited her to participate in last fall’s event. “STEM Goes Red is important to me because it provides opportunities that I didn't have growing up. As a child, I wasn't exposed to STEM careers or the many paths available in science, engineering, manufacturing, and technology. Throughout my career, I've worked in engineering-focused organizations, and I've seen firsthand that women continue to be underrepresented in many technical fields.”

Making a Lasting Impact

After a successful 2025 season, she decided to continue supporting the mission because of the impact she saw it made.

“Watching the students engage with the hands-on activities, ask thoughtful questions, and genuinely get excited about the opportunities available to them was priceless. Seeing that level of energy and curiosity reinforced why programs like STEM Goes Red are so important. They help spark interest and show students, especially young women, that there are exciting and attainable careers in STEM and manufacturing.”

This year's event takes place at the Great Lakes Science Center on Monday, October 5, from 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM and will host up to 350 girls from 35 schools. 

Creating a Future Workforce Pipeline

With so many manufacturers struggling to recruit reliable fresh talent, I wondered how STEM Goes Red can help create that pipeline for the future workforce, and how manufacturers could use inspiration from the program and implement it in their own work. Chelsey responded by saying,

“I think manufacturers sometimes underestimate how early students begin forming opinions about potential careers and employers. If we wait until they're entering the workforce to introduce our organizations, we've missed years of opportunity to inspire them."

"One of the biggest takeaways from STEM Goes Red is that it's an opportunity to build your future talent pipeline. By engaging with students today, you're planting a seed that could influence where they choose to work five or even ten years from now. When students have a positive, memorable experience with your organization, they're much more likely to remember your company when they're exploring careers."

"The second takeaway is the value of building your employer brand in Northeast Ohio. STEM Goes Red gives manufacturers a chance to showcase who they are, the innovative work they do, and the variety of careers available beyond what many students traditionally think of as manufacturing. That visibility not only helps attract future talent but also demonstrates your organization's commitment to investing in the next generation of our workforce.”

What Can We Do?

What can we do to help out with STEM Goes Red’s mission? There are several ways to get involved. You can sponsor, donate swag, or volunteer. If you would like to learn more, reach out to Julie Gotschall, Senior Development Director of Go Red for Women & STEM Goes Red.

“If we can inspire even one student to pursue a future in STEM or manufacturing, then we've made a meaningful difference.”