For Immediate Release

Contact: Melissa Bailey, socialmedia@nacme.org

NACME Launches 2024 Southeast Michigan Pathway Program

Ann Arbor, MI – July 17, 2024 –

Generously Supported by Ford Motor Company

The National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering, Inc. (NACME) is excited to announce the continuation of the Southeast Michigan Pathway program for Summer 2024, sponsored by the Ford Motor Company and hosted by the University of Michigan's Office of Culture, Community, and Equity (OCCE). The program aims to prepare underrepresented students from the Detroit metropolitan area for successful careers in engineering and computer science.

The Southeast Michigan Pathway program is designed for 11th and 12th-grade students and is a prime example of early engagement to address the lack of talent entering engineering or computer science fields. By combining academic support, professional development, and career mentorship at the high school level, the program increases participants’ likelihood of gaining admission to competitive engineering colleges.

Program Highlights include:

• Academic Support: Accelerated math learning throughout the academic year.

• Professional Development: Coaching for college applications and mentoring from Ford engineers.

• Career Exposure: Comprehensive guidance on the college application process, including how to create effective college lists and write compelling college essays.

• Financial Aid: Priority access to a $10,000 NACME college scholarship and Ford internships for program graduates.

• Summer Experience: A two-week residential program at the University of Michigan’s campus, focusing on programming, math, engineering concepts, college readiness, and professional development.

In Summer 2023, the Southeast Michigan Pathway program included 31 students. NACME’s pre- and post-assessments revealed significant improvements in students' knowledge of engineering concepts, creative thinking, community impact, and confidence in pursuing STEM education and careers.

Key Outcomes:

• Increased Persistence and Graduation Rates: The program enhances academic preparation and financial aid, crucial for student success in college.

• Mentorship: Students benefit from seeing role models who reflect their backgrounds in influential and respected engineering positions.

• Effective Recruitment: Introducing students to the University of Michigan campus is an effective strategy for college recruitment, broadening participation in engineering and college enrollment.

“Ford is proud to sponsor the NACME Southeast Michigan Pathway Program”, said Carlene Bills, president and CEO, Ford Component Sales, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company.

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.