California State University Channel Islands: CSUCI hosts a variety of programs to promote STEM equity in Ventura County including a county-wide STEM Carnival. NAVFAC EXWC supports the STEM Carnival each year. More information is available here.
SeaGlide Underwater Robotics Competition: Local students participate in a semester-long program to build autonomous underwater vehicles in their classrooms, then 10 teams of students maneuver their creations through an underwater obstacle course competition in the Port of Hueneme’s dive tank during the annual MAST Expo. In partnership with the Ventura County Office of Education, NAVFAC supports the local competition by purchasing supplies and providing engineers and scientists as judges.
Ventura County Office of Education: The Ventura County Office of Education offers training and support services to local schools, districts, educators and members of the community. DOD-aligned events include: Hackathon by the Sea, Entrée to employment and more. NAVFAC EXWC supports many of the programs offered by the Office of Education Career Education Center. More information is available here.
Ventura County STEM Network: NAVFAC EXWC Serves as a steering committee member for Ventura County STEM network. VC STEM serves as a leadership hub for regional stakeholders throughout Ventura County to work together to improve educational outcomes in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Membership includes Department of Navy representatives, industry, academia, libraries, and education-related non-profit entities. More information is available here.
SAME Navy STEM Engineering and Construction Camp: The Society of American Military Engineers hosts their annual Navy STEM construction camp in partnership with NAVFAC EXWC and other Navy commands at Naval Base Ventura County. High school students from around the country engage in hands-on engineering and construction activities under the mentorship and supervision of base commands, volunteers, and the local engineering community. Campers live, eat and complete activities as squads with uniformed service members and STEM-related working professionals. More information is available here.
USA Science and Engineering Festival: The USA Science & Engineering Festival is a national grassroots effort to advance STEM education and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. The exhibitors, performers, speakers, partners, sponsors and advisors are a who-is-who of science and engineering in the United States: From major academic centers and leading research institutes and government agencies to cutting-edge, high-tech companies, museums and community organizations. NAVFAC EXWC participates in the festival by providing engaging, hands-on activities for students. More information is available here.
U.S. FIRST: FIRST is a US-based global robotics competition whose mission is to inspire elementary, middle school, and high school students to be science and technology leaders. From a modest beginning with 28 teams in New Hampshire gymnasium in 1992, the program has grown to reach 400,000 students worldwide. Some 200,000 mentors, coaches, judges, and volunteers in more than 80 countries support 44,000 teams. FIRST's emphasis on technical excellence and problem solving inspires innovation while at the same time fostering well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership. In partnership with the Ventura County Office of Education, NAVFAC supports the local First competitions by purchasing supplies and covering miscellaneous fees for local groups and providing engineers and scientists as mentors. Annually, NAVFAC EXWC submits local teams for the DOD FIRST Robotics Grant Program to cover the cost of materials and supplies. More information is available here.