STEM to Stern

STEM to Stern helps rowing teams become more diverse and competitive by eliminating barriers that many communities face, rowing teams can draw from a larger pool of athletes and create a diverse and inclusive environment at their clubs. 

The STEM to Stern program was started in Milwaukee, WI at the Milwaukee Rowing Club as a way to eliminate the barriers of participation and to increase representation on the team. The main barriers to rowing include transportation, swimming lessons and club fees. By creating ways to address these barriers, students are able to participate, regardless of where they are from. 

Rowing is the main focal point of the STEM to Stern program. Clubs are able to use rowing to build relationships among students who otherwise would not have the opportunity to interact or compete together. One of the many benefits of STEM to Stern is the diverse and competitive environment that is developed through this program. By adding more athletes from all around your city, your team will become more competitive and more diverse.  Clubs that grow in size and diversity increase their level of speed and relevance in their community.  With additional athletes competing for spots in boats, your team will have more rowers pushing each other and bringing the best out of each other.

STEM education is another focal point of the program. Many of the students who participate are behind in school. By having a STEM component as part of the program, they set students up to think critically, problem solve and be successful on and off the water.  

The STEM to Stern team has worked with clubs around the country to help them develop their own program. Their mission is to create twenty-five programs across the United States by 2021.  

They would love to hear from you! Send them a message if you have a specific question about STEM to Stern, want to get involved in your city, or want to start your own program. CLICK HERE.