August 29, 2023
Contact: Maddy Mahony, maddy@lanlfoundation.org
Albuquerque, NM – The New Mexico Governor’s STEM Challenge has announced its 2024 Challenge Question as it kicks off student team recruitment. Celebrating its fifth year, the Challenge is an annual competition where high school students from across the state showcase their skills and knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to build practical solutions for real-world problems. This year’s Challenge will be hosted by the University of New Mexico on January 20th, 2024 in Albuquerque.
This year’s question is: Now that we live in a post-pandemic world, how can we improve overall mental, physical, or relational health and wellness in our homes, schools, and communities through the use of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)?
“This competition showcases tremendous talent and academic achievement in New Mexico,” said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. “STEM programs and competitions like these are launching pads for students looking to create technology for the future not just in our state but across the country. I’m looking forward to seeing the final products and how these students are innovating to solve the biggest questions facing our world today.”
Supported by partnerships with New Mexico State University, University of New Mexico, New Mexico Department of Public Education, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, LANL Foundation, and local and national business and industry leaders, the Challenge is a platform for young minds to shape a brighter future for New Mexico using the transformative power of STEM education. The Challenge encourages participation from underrepresented populations in STEM, including students of color and girls.
“This challenge is a win-win for all involved,” said Jenny Parks, President and CEO of the LANL Foundation. “Students are given the opportunity to meet potential employers in their fields and employer sponsors are exposed to the talented future workforce of our state.”
Student Team Recruitment:
High school students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are invited to participate. Every high school in New Mexico is eligible to register one team. Teachers are encouraged to build teams with diverse ages and abilities. The Challenge provides an unparalleled platform to work on cutting-edge projects ranging from technological advancements to sustainable environmental practices. Applications are now open at newmexicostem.org/challenge.
“Year after year, our New Mexican high school students never cease to amaze me in their abilities to provide real-world applications to theoretical ideas,” said Madi Burns, the Statewide Showcase Coordinator. “The Challenge not only provides an outlet for students to engage in STEM at an elevated level, but also provides an incentive to pursue STEM career pathways in New Mexico through continued industry partner engagement and networking. I am so excited to see what students bring to the table for the fifth year showcase!”
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Supported by partnerships with New Mexico State University, University of New Mexico, New Mexico Department of Public Education, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, LANL Foundation, and various business and industry leaders, sponsorship is vital to the Challenge’s success. For more information on how to sponsor, please visit newmexicostem.org/sponsor.
New Mexico Governor’s STEM Challenge Chair Ryan Labbe, General Manager of Tyler Technologies, also emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “This competition would not be possible without our generous business and industry partners who recognize the value of nurturing young talent. Together, we’re helping to keep New Mexico at the forefront of scientific and technological advancement.”
Past sponsors who are returning to the 2023-2024 Challenge include Anchorum, Boeing, Chevron, Deloitte, El Paso Electric, Exxon Mobil, Form Foundation, Freeport, Intel, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Meta, National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Pattern Energy, Presbyterian Healthcare Services, Sandia National Laboratories, Stantec, Tyler Technologies, URENCO, Virgin Galactic and WSP-Golder.
About the New Mexico Governor’s STEM Challenge:
The Challenge is a powerful ecosystem that brings together students, educators, volunteers, government officials, and industry experts. It lays the foundation for a brighter future by supporting and empowering the next generation of STEM leaders. Through innovation and collaboration, the Challenge is shaping the future of New Mexico.
For more information about the New Mexico Governor’s STEM Challenge, student team recruitment, or sponsorship opportunities, please visit newmexicostem.org or email info@newmexicostem.org.
