Representatives of Capital Region STEP and CSTEP programs, funded by the NYS Department of Education, will be present to share information on how their programs prepare economically disadvantaged and underrepresented students in the STEM fields to pursue college and careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the health and licensed professions. 

The Nurses Middle College Charter High School-Capital Region was created as a solution to the critical nursing shortage and to ensure a diverse nursing/healthcare workforce to improve health outcomes for all New Yorkers. Our mission is to prepare a diverse group of students to become the highly educated and professional nursing workforce for the future. We created an innovative high school experience that is student-centric, structured to foster a supportive learning environment, and committed to developing the skills, knowledge and passion necessary to excel in the nursing and allied health professions. 

The Strang Strong Gutmann Foundation Summer Program is specifically designed for young individuals, between 17 and 20, who reside in Rensselaer County. This program is targeted towards those who are undecided about attending college but are interested in potentially starting a career in Information Technology (IT). The program provides paid training to prepare students for the CompTIA A+ certification, a nationally recognized entry-level IT certification. 

CanCode Communities develops non-traditional talent and advocates for a vibrant, inclusive tech talent pipeline. We design and deliver workforce training courses, hands-on K-12 coding programs, and basic computer training workshops, in alignment with the needs of employers, educators, talent and the community in general. Our mission is to shift mindsets about who can work in technology, remove cultural and economic barriers to joining the tech workforce, and establish and promote pathways to tech careers throughout the region.

The RED Bookshelf inspires children to read by increasing their access to the benefits of book ownership, encouraging children in their reading practice, and making reading relevant to their lives through innovative literacy programs. Stop by our bookshelf and learn how children are seen and see themselves as superheroes with the power to shape their futures using books and reading as tools to achieve their goals. 

Tech Valley Center of Gravity is the Capital Region's premier makerspace, manufacturing incubator, and STEAM education center. We provide low-cost access to fabrication tools, workshop space, business expertise, and education to an inclusive and diverse network of creative people who are passionate about making things. Stop by our table to learn more about our free monthly STEAM Powered Saturday program for children ages 4-12, field trip opportunities, and membership options for individuals, schools, and businesses!