By Willona Sloan
“At Aberdeen Proving Ground, we’re known as the Army’s ‘Home of Innovation.’ If a soldier uses a piece of technology for protection, intelligence, to shoot, to move or to communicate, chances are that an APG organization developed, tested and fielded it,” said Maj. Gen. Randy S. Taylor, senior commanding general at Aberdeen Proving Ground and commanding general of Communications-Electronics Command.
With a focus on inspiring the next generation of innovators, Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) provides meaningful opportunities for young people in northeastern Maryland to engage with professionals at APG while also learning critical skills that can lead to exciting careers.
“On a yearly basis we facilitate more than 40,000 student interactions, more than 1,000 teacher interactions, and participate in more than 130 events,” Taylor said. “Our employees selflessly give their time to support these efforts, and they are excited to feed that technology hunger to build up our next generation of APG workers.”
APG personnel participate in STEM & Beyond nights in local public schools, support FIRST Lego Leagues and FIRST Robotics events and trainings, serve as judges at school science fairs, and organize math and science summer and in-school programs. At the installation, they host STEM-related activities for the community such as the APG Discovery Fest and the Junior Solar Sprint competition.
(Below) Taylor Wagley, a student at North Bay Haven Charter Academy High School in Panama City, Fla., prepares a 3-D printed sample she made at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory as part of a two-week internship with the Joint Science and Technology Institute in August 2017. Army photo by David McNally.
APG also serves as a partner to Joppatowne High School’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (HSEP) Program. “APG has been a tremendous supporter of the HSEP Program at Joppatowne High School,” said Erica Kelly, a teacher and coach who serves as the HSEP program coordinator.
“APG has continuously supported our program through mentorships, guest speakers and field trips. Students can use these valuable experiences to help them become college or career-ready.”
At Aberdeen High School, APG has been an integral partner for the school’s Science and Mathematics Academy, a magnet program for students interested in rigorous study of the STEM fields. The school’s Project Lead the Way Engineering is a STEM program designed for students interested in learning about the different fields of engineering.
Through APG, Aberdeen High School students can participate in mentorships, internships, STEM camp and other educational enrichment activities.
“APG is the perfect community partner,” Aberdeen High School Principal Michael O’Brien said. “People on APG understand the nature of service. They are constantly looking to provide experiences and mentor our students. What the great people on APG teach our students is how to selflessly serve and give back to the community. There are people on APG from every STEM career imaginable, and they all help us on every path we travel.”
For APG, the mission is clear. Supporting STEM education efforts is great for the entire community.
“We know that a scientifically and technologically literate citizenry is our nation’s best hope for a secure, rewarding and successful future,” Taylor said.
