The Engineer Factory

Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)/drones are disruptive aerospace technology, changing the way businesses and first responders operate. However recent studies indicate that the aerospace industry is one of the least diverse industries in the United States where in 83% technical staff are white men. Engineer Factory will partner with UAS Center at SBD to launch JumpStart Drones Workforce Development Program to prepare youth in South LA to successfully enter drone-related careers.

Computer Science Equity—the Dept of Labor projects by 2030 2/3 of jobs will require computer science skills; but less than 12% of Title I schools offer computer science classes. Engineer Factory Computer Science Equity program helps students in Title I schools: 1) Build a Piper computer & earn UCSD credential; 2) learn coding using Code.org curriculum; 3) receive coaching from Cal State LA faculty and engineering students to pass the AP Computer Science exams; and 4) learn to build a functioning desktop computer that the students will keep.

The mission of the Engineer Factory is to strengthen the K-12 STEM education pipeline and increase the number of African American, Latinx and female students from underserved communities who pursue degrees and careers in Engineering and STEM. This is accomplished through: project-based learning ; coaching of competition-ready teams; culturally responsive math support; professional development for K-6 educators; exposure and linkages to the engineering industry; and by awarding scholarships to deserving high school seniors.

The Engineer Factory will strengthen the math skills of 500 third through eighth grade students at ten (10) under performing schools in South Los Angeles, Inglewood, Watts and Compton. This will be accomplished with weekly #MathSwag Labs at the schools lead by future STEM teachers in the CSU Math Science Teacher Initiative. The program will also use peer volunteers and parent participation.

The Engineer Factory is to increase the number of students from underrepresented populations (girls and students of color) that pursue higher education and careers in Engineering. This