The US is suffering from a shortage of applicants in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. Studies cite the lack of role models in the STEM field and lack of exposure to STEM at an early age. By the time a child has reached the third grade, the child has permanently lost his/her interest in STEM. This is where an IP attorney can make a difference! An alternate career in IP to consider is becoming a STEM mentor to young children. As a mentor, you can share your passion and love for STEM and even inventions, if you work in the patent field.
For example, after I learned about the importance of exposing children at an early age to STEM, I felt compelled to make a difference in my community. I couldn’t find a STEM program for my daughter, when she was 5 years old, so I created KidGINEER, LLC. KidGINEER, LLC is a creative and fun educational program for children ages 5-10. We provide hands-on STEM programs focused on electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, and chemistry, to name a few. We provide an advanced curriculum and we expose students to an engineer in the field at the end of each session. Minorities and women are underrepresented in STEM fields. It is my hope that our students will pursue STEM careers.
A patent agent or patent attorney can also discuss the patent process and system with children. Many children are longing for the opportunity to explore STEM and bring their creativity to life. Discussing cool inventions invented by children will surely motivate a child. Also, exploring creative ways to educate children about inventors can be equally intellectually stimulating. It is likely that someone exposed you to STEM at an early age or it is likely that you had a mentor that encouraged you to pursue a STEM degree in College. Consider giving back and making a difference in your community.
Andrea H. Evans is the owner of The Law Firm of Andrea Hence Evans, LLC. She is also the owner of KidGINEER, LLC. Evans was recently honored by the White House as a STEM Diversity and Access Champion of Change Award Recipient for her work and involvement with KidGINEER®, LLC.