Rocky Mountain AWIM Initiative (RMAI)

SAE's AWIM programs are designed to engage, excite, and encourage students to explore STEM subjects and careers, even in the most remote regions of our states. With an array of corporate and community partnerships we have instituted the Rocky Mountain AWIM Initiative (RMAI). Montana's OPI Superintendent, Denise Juneau together with First Lady Nancy Schweitzer value SAE's AWIM programs as highlighted on Montana's Web Site. http://mathscience.mt.gov/home.htm. AWIM program standards are closely aligned with the Common Core Standards from Kindergarten, using a literature based awareness to STEM education, all the way through high school science, math and technology educational applications and analysis. Ms Juneau's support of the Montana Common Core standards is summed up as "The new common core standards spell out for all 13 grades - even kindergarten - the precise skills and knowledge students should master each year in math and English."Montana Common Core Analysis Report.

RMAI took root from previous undertakings (Frontier States Initiative) to foster STEM education since the mid-1990s. Arne Siegel, a prominent Montana businessman, in an effort to secure Montana students with the best technological and science based education, began working with Montana ambassadors from universities, former governors, and various business leaders. His idea generated years of research and financial support from SAE through his Frontier States Initiative. Together with Mr. Siegel SAE has re-established, revitalized, and rejuvenated this promise through the newly formed Rocky Mountain AWIM Initiative (RMAI).

It is our goal to ensure every child in every school in Montana, has the opportunity to discover and engage in AWIM. As with any initiative, we cannot do this alone. We need the support of business and industry leaders to champion their community of schools and as a result guarantee a workforce with a solid foundation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

RMAI is seeking the support of business and industry leaders. Contact Patricia Schneider, RMAI Education Consultant, at pschneider0180@comcast.net or Chris Ciuca, AWIM Program Manager, cciuca@sae.org for more information and to secure your support.