Gear Up 4 STEM is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit in the State of Florida.
In just 3 years, there will be a need to fill 3.5 million jobs in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and these fields are growing faster than non-STEM sectors. Who will fill this gap? Those who are currently underrepresented in the STEM fields. Women only held 24% of all STEM jobs in 2015, and Blacks and Hispanics only make up 9% and 7% of all STEM workers, respectively. Gear Up 4 STEM aids in filling the need for more people to enter the STEM fields while promoting diversity.
Through education, engagement, and empowerment, Gear Up 4 STEM is working towards inspiring and uplifting the next generation of scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians.
A strong foundation in the science and math subjects is important for a student's success in STEM. Through YouTube videos and STEM demos (in-person and online) we are introducing science and math subjects in an easy to understand way.
Our 'Become a Scientist' events are designed with fun, hands-on activities to engage young learners in STEM. It is very important that students have fun with STEM so that they do not become intimidated by the subjects later in life.
Students may not always have the resources or encouragement needed to pursue a career in STEM. We aim to provide the resources necessary for women and other underrepresented groups in STEM.
Anastasia obtained her bachelor's and master's degrees in biomedical engineering from the University of Florida in 2019 and 2020, respectively, graduating with honors and completing a thesis. She was encouraged by her parents, who are both engineers, to pursue STEM, but peers, teachers, and advisors discouraged Anastasia along the way. These experiences inspired Gear Up 4 STEM, because Anastasia wanted to provide the encouragement and resources needed for a student's success in STEM.
Currently, Anastasia is pursuing medical school and serving as Miss Pasco County 2022. To learn more about our founder you can visit www.anastasiavalimaki.com