Congressman Robert J. Wittman | Official US House headshots
Congressman Robert J. Wittman | Official US House headshots
Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) recently hosted a STEM seminar at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) to provide valuable information and resources to local school board members, administrators, and parents. The seminar aimed to prepare students for the increasing demand in STEM fields and the career opportunities that come with it.
Joining Congressman Wittman were esteemed individuals in the field of STEM education. Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, the director of the National Science Foundation, Dr. John Fife, the interim director of VCU's Center for Innovation in STEM Education, and Dr. Kume Goranson, the executive director of CodeRVA, all shared their expertise with the participants.
During the seminar, Congressman Wittman emphasized the importance of equipping children and future leaders with the necessary education and resources to succeed in the 21st-century economy. He highlighted the need for collaboration between local, state, and federal levels to provide students with the tools they need to thrive in a STEM-centric workforce. Wittman expressed his gratitude to the higher education and K-12 leaders, as well as STEM experts, for engaging with the community members.
Wittman has been a consistent advocate for increased funding and resources for education, particularly in STEM and career and technical education (CTE). Throughout his time in Congress, he has introduced and co-sponsored several bills that aim to support students in pursuing STEM-related careers. Some of these initiatives include the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act, which permits the use of 529 account funds for postsecondary credential and training program expenses, and the PROPEL Act, which allows students to use Pell Grants for vocational or technical training.
Additionally, Wittman has co-sponsored bills such as the Computers for Veterans and Students Act, which facilitates the distribution of surplus government computers to veterans, students, and seniors in need. He also supports the American Innovation and R&D Competitiveness Act, which aims to increase innovation through tax expenditure exemptions. Furthermore, Wittman is a co-sponsor of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act, which invests in education and training in quantum fields.
As a testament to his commitment to education and career opportunities, Congressman Wittman serves on the House Career and Technical Education Caucus. Through these efforts, he continues to champion the importance of STEM education and its role in shaping the future workforce.
The STEM seminar hosted by Congressman Wittman at VCU was a valuable opportunity for local school board members, administrators, and parents to gain insights and resources to better prepare students for the job market. Wittman's dedication to education and his advocacy for STEM and CTE initiatives make him a vital ally in the pursuit of high-quality education and career opportunities for students across the country.
To learn more, click on this link: https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5447