For Immediate Release

Contact: Melissa Bailey, socialmedia@nacme.org

NACME and NAMEPA Launch Virtual Bridge Program to Expand Access to Critical Engineering Coursework

Alexandria, VA – July 10, 2024 –

Generously Sponsored by The Bechtel Group Foundation

The National Association of Multicultural Engineering Program Advocates (NAMEPA), and the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME), with primary support from the Bechtel Group Foundation, and the additional sponsors of the Engineering PLUS Alliance and MathWorks, are proud to announce the National Virtual Bridge (NVB) program. This initiative tackles the critical issue of limited seat capacity in college bridge programs, ensuring that more students nationwide have access to essential preparatory content in calculus and physics. By removing barriers to these foundational subjects, the NVB program aims to significantly increase engineering graduation rates.

The NVB program will run from Sunday, July 7th to Sunday, August 4th, 2024, offering a comprehensive five-week online summer bridge program for incoming first-year, first-time, full-time students. This program is designed to support their successful academic and social transition to their respective five (5) partnering institutions.

Curriculum Highlights:

The program's core components include pre-introductory coursework offered over the five-week summer virtual program. Non-credit courses will cover engineering calculus, physics, and MATLAB/Python computer science. Students will also participate in an engineering design project and engage in collaborative learning/tutoring group sessions with teaching assistants and program mentors.

Key outcomes of the program include:

• Increasing student achievement and retention.

• Enabling professional identity upon matriculation.

• Contributing to a holistic student support system.

• Helping students build self-esteem, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging in the profession.

Professional Development and Campus Acclimation:

Throughout the program, students will participate in professional and personal development webinars, hosted by NAMEPA and NACME, covering topics such as academic and social transitioning, career pathways in STEM, mental wellness management, and more. Additionally, NACME board companies will host externships from July 31st to August 4th, providing early professional development experiences and discipline-specific career learning opportunities.

“Research demonstrates that college prep in these areas improves retention and college graduation for students in engineering and computer science,” said Kevin Edwards, PVP Bechtel and Chair of the Board of NACME. “We are proud to sponsor online content that meets students where they are and helps those who may not have access to residential programs on their campuses.”

About Bechtel Group Foundation:

Bechtel Group Foundation supports innovative programs and initiatives that make a significant impact on communities and industries, particularly in education and STEM fields.

Call to Action for Corporate Support

NACME invites companies to join us in this crucial initiative by contributing financial and human resources to our efforts. Your support will help ensure America’s continued leadership in innovation by fostering a diverse and talented workforce. By investing in these students, companies are not only contributing to their individual success but also to the broader goal of national economic growth and technological advancement.