FiERCE
Futures in Engineering: Role Models Can Empower
About FiERCE:
FiERCE is a program that leverages research that indicates that the most effective way to inspire young students to pursue careers in the STEM fields is by exposing them to strong mentors and role-models.
Dr. Marietta Scanlon, associate teaching professor of engineering at Penn State Berks, developed the program after identifying a need to not only recruit young students to STEM fields, but to also improve retention among undergraduate engineering students.
About Us
Dr. Scanlon received a grant from the Engineering Information Foundation to research the effects of role models and mentors on young mind’s interest and confidence in engineering. Based on its overwhelming success and impact, the program has been supported by a generous gift.
FiERCE partners with local schools across Berks and Lancaster counties to deliver engineering content, but more importantly to pair PSU engineering undergrads with middle and high schoolers.
Why Join FiERCE?
Make an Impact!…
89% of respondents indicated that this program made them like science more than they did prior to the program, 29% of those respondents indicating that they did not like science at all prior to the program but have now developed an interest.
78% of students indicated that the program made them think more about how things work.
70% responded that the program made them more of a problem solver.
70% of students felt it made them apply knowledge rather than just memorize it.
93% of students felt positive about their relationships with the PSU mentors, with 82% reporting that working with the mentors made
them more confident about doing engineering work.
100% of the Penn State students felt that they were able to serve as positive role-models to the
middle school students.
100% of the PSU students indicated that this program increased their confidence in their career choice, stood out on their resume, and
helped foster a feeling of belonging.
For More Information or to inquire
about participating, please submit the form below.
The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches but to reveal to him his own.
FiERCE isn’t just a program,
