Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recognizes the critical role that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education plays in enabling the U.S. to remain the economic and technological leaders of the global marketplace, and enabling the Department of Defense and Army in the security of our Nation. We are committed to teaming with others to strengthen STEM-related programs that inspire current and future generations of young people to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Armed with toothpicks and marshmallows, members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Alaska District conducted outreach events at four Anchorage schools to mark National Engineers Week from Feb. 20 to 26. The annual observance is dedicated to ensuring a diverse and well-educated future engineering workforce by increasing understanding of and interest in science, technology, engineering and math careers.
Justin Kerwin, senior park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Alaska District, welcomes students on Aug. 5 to the Chena River Lakes Flood Control Project near North Pole, Alaska. The 125 children participated in eight STEM stations to learn about the science behind the Moose Creek Dam.
Janet Post, regulatory specialist in the Regulatory Division, shows a taxidermy duck to a group of 5th and 6th graders at Turnagain Elementary School during a STEM outreach event for the Alaska District.
Twenty-four children between the ages 9 and 17 visited the district headquarters building Feb. 14 to participate in the biennial Bring Your Youth to Work Day event. The kids were encouraged to think about future careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Demonstrations exposed them to different elements of the Corps of Engineers such as breakwaters, cost engineering, computer generated modeling, environmental sampling and wetland permitting.
Mike Alley, civil engineer in the Design Branch at the Alaska District, instructs Jarrett Oney Feb. 18 about a storm water outfall on Kodiak Island. Alley is mentoring Oney who is a local high school student and member of the Anchorage School District Gifted Mentorship Program. Alley's passion for teaching led him to volunteer his time and expertise to the program.
Richard David, a civil engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Alaska District, volunteered for 45 days during the 2013 spring flood crisis in Galena, Alaska. His tour of duty provided the citizens of Galena with helping hands and a familiar face.
Maj. Mark DeRocchi, deputy commander of the Alaska District, and a few other Corps employees visited with students of Mount Spurr, Ursa Major and Ursa Minor Elementary schools during the week of Nov.18-22 to encourage their studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, also known as STEM. Students learned about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the roles of its different divisions and the Corps’ contribution to their community. Using toothpicks and marshmallows, the children got to build their own bridge and test its strength using toy cars with a time limit of 10 minutes.
Col. Christopher Lestochi (second from left), district commander of the Alaska District, Terry Parks (middle), president of the Fisher House of Alaska board of directors, and 1st Lt. Dan Frederick (third from right), engineer with the 2nd Engineer Brigade, cut the ribbon Oct. 2 to a new storage shed at the Alaska Fisher House located on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson during a dedication ceremony.
An American Heritage Girls Troop learns about structural integrity using gumdrops and toothpicks. Bo Wycoff, civil engineer, prepares to test toothpick and gumdrop structures built by the girls. Greg Schmidt, deputy chief of the Engineering Division, serves as an adult leader for the troop and helps them earn their engineering merit badge. Schmidt created the badge for the national organization in 2010.

Contact Us

Do you have questions about STEM? Want to know how you can partner with the Alaska District on a great STEM opportunity? Call 907-753-2615 or email public.affairs3@usace.army.mil.

Outreach Opportunities

  • STEM Nights
  • Science Fair Judging
  • Bridge Design Classroom Activity
  • and more!

Alaska District STEM