Delaware STEM Hub reports success in workforce development and community engagement

The Wilmington Education, Youth & Family Services Committee convened on June 11, 2025, to discuss significant developments at the STEM hub, focusing on workforce development initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and educational opportunities.

The meeting began with a presentation on the STEM hub's ongoing efforts to improve workforce development for families, which in turn is expected to benefit their children. Ray Rhodes, a key speaker, highlighted the hub's partnerships with local organizations, including Delaware Technical Community College (Del Tech) and BioConnect, to provide training and certification programs. The first cohort of nursing students saw over 200 applicants, with 25 enrolled and 19 achieving certifications in various medical fields. Currently, a second cohort with BioConnect is underway, training students as lab technicians.

Rhodes emphasized the hub's commitment to providing accessible training spaces, including chemistry labs and a makerspace, to facilitate learning without altering the mission of partner organizations. The hub has also engaged with Future First Gaming to teach students about gaming careers, and plans to introduce a drone camp in July, which has already attracted significant interest.

In addition to youth programming, the STEM hub is expanding adult education opportunities, with various local organizations utilizing the space for training. Rhodes noted the importance of mental health services, mentioning a partnership with Synergy Consultants to offer support within the facility.

The committee discussed the impressive outreach of the STEM hub, which has seen over 400 applicants for workforce training, although few are from Eastside Charter School. Rhodes encouraged community members to explore the hub's offerings, which include free training and potential internships.

The meeting concluded with a call for further demographic data to better understand the reach of the programs, particularly regarding the residency of participants. The committee expressed appreciation for the hub's impact on the community, urging more residents to take advantage of the resources available.