SPIPA Workforce Development Youth Summit 2024: Empowering Future Leaders
On July 10, 2024, the South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency (SPIPA) Workforce Development Programs held an inspiring Youth Summit at the Nisqually Tribe Youth Center. The event, running from 10 AM to 4 PM, aimed to present youth with educational pathways in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM), and to explore the differences between universities, community colleges, and trade schools.
The summit began with a heartfelt prayer by Colville Elder, Gwen Gua, setting a reflective and respectful tone for the day. The Nisqually youth center was bustling with activity as representatives from Tacoma Community College, NASA, Olympic Community College, the Nisqually Hatchery, and the construction trades lined the venue. These representatives provided valuable insights and opportunities, emphasizing the various routes to higher education and skilled trades.
A highlight of the day were presentations from two National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) interns, Shanwell McFarlane and Lisa RedSteer who are students at the Northwest Indian College and members of AISES (American Indian Science and Engineering Society). Shawnell presented the audience with her book, Cosmic Connections and Arctic Traditions: A Journey of Indigenous Knowledge, Scientific Inquiry, Imagination, and Hope. Her work beautifully intertwines indigenous knowledge with scientific exploration, inspiring the youth to see the vast possibilities that lie in integrating cultural heritage with modern science. Both women presented fascinating information and stories about Native Astronomy, their work in the NASA Internship program, and the AISES Rocketry Program.
Throughout the day, the event featured an array of speakers and sessions focused on elevating minorities in STEAM fields. The MESA program, dedicated to supporting minorities in engineering and science, was showcased, along with the Washington Trades Council’s apprenticeships in construction, pipe fitting, and Sheet metal fabrication. These programs are designed to provide minority students with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in these industries.
Cultural activities played a significant role in the summit, highlighting the connection between traditional practices and modern education. Amber Lefthand Bull from the Nisqually Fish Hatchery shared her inspirational life story and how she became a STEM professional. Amber is a biologist working for the Nisqually Fisheries and is also contracted with NOAA. She led an engaging salmon dissection workshop in the afternoon, teaching participants about the lifecycle of salmon and the ecological significance of their work. This hands-on activity allowed the youth to gain a deeper understanding of local environmental stewardship.
The event also featured horseback riding and rocket-building kits that participants could take home to work on with their families. These activities demonstrated how art, engineering, science, and mathematics can intersect in exciting and meaningful ways.
The SPIPA Youth Summit was a resounding success, showcasing the possibilities that STEAM education holds for our youth and inspiring them to pursue their dreams in higher education and skilled trades. The event not only provided valuable information and resources but also created a space for cultural exchange and community building.
As the day came to a close, the enthusiasm and excitement among the youth were palpable. The summit had achieved its goal of empowering the next generation of leaders, showing them that with education and determination, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
If you would like more information about STEM, STEAM and other NACTEP opportunities, please call SPIPA Workforce Development Programs at 360.426.3990 or visit spipa.org/workforce-development/
