When 58% of high school girls feel STEM careers are out of reach, a bold new partnership invests in Detroit’s future—breaking barriers and building pathways for girls to become leaders in STEM.

Detroit, MI: Project Scientist, a national nonprofit delivering high-quality education in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) to girls, is proud to launch its transformational programs in Detroit this summer through a new partnership with Detroit Edison Public School Academy (DEPSA) and other schools in the Detroit area. With the generous support of GM, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and longtime partners Takeda and Trane Technologies, Project Scientist will bring cutting-edge, hands-on STEAM education and mentorship to girls who are historically underrepresented in STEM fields year round.

This collaboration comes at a pivotal time. STEM programs are typically high-demand, high-wage fields, and right now fewer than 13% girls in Detroit take college prep STEM courses, and only 3% earn college credit before graduating—reflecting the need for more access and opportunity.

The initiative kicks off July 7–10 with a hands-on Summer STEAM Lab exploring real-world sustainability challenges across multiple industries—including fashion, automotive, and tech. Girls will learn and use the Project Scientist Engineering Design Process, a cornerstone of the organization’s curriculum as they test materials for durability, design solutions using upcycle components, explore wearable technology, and connect with professional women driving innovation in diverse fields. The week will also feature a fireside chat with education leader Tiffany Taylor, GSV ventures and Dr. Patrice S. Johnson, CEO of Project Scientist. Thanks to the support from Kellogg Foundation, GM, and Trane Technologies, all programming is offered at no cost to families, breaking down financial barriers and ensuring equitable access to opportunity.

Project Scientist’s year-round out-of-school programming includes the Summer STEAM Lab, After-School STEAM Club during the fall and spring, and the Elevate Institute for Educators. All offerings are grounded in research and joy-based learning, designed to increase girls’ confidence and competence in STEM subjects.

“We’re launching in Detroit because the moment demands it—and our girls deserve it.” said Dr. Patrice S. Johnson, CEO of Project Scientist. “While STEM industries race ahead, too many girls, especially girls of color, are being left behind. At Project Scientist, we’re not just teaching science—we’re building confidence, sparking curiosity, and showing girls that they belong in every space where ideas take shape. Detroit is a city of innovation, grit, and reinvention—so it’s only right that our girls are equipped to lead its future”

Media Availability

• Representatives from Project Scientist are available for virtual interviews upon request.
• July 7, 2025: In-person interview opportunities with students and representatives from Project Scientist at the Summer Lab in Detroit can be coordinated upon request.