Institute for Digital Enterprise Advancement Emphasizes the “E” in STEM.
The Institute for Digital Enterprise Advancement (IDEA), in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is excited to introduce a new STEM initiative focused on key engineering principles in developing innovative classroom lesson plans and activities. TVA’s contribution of $60,000 will support this project to develop a systems engineering modeling curriculum.
“At TVA, we understand that our journey to developing the energy system of the future must include programs that enrich the communities we serve, strategic partnerships, and investments in education and the development of a skilled workforce,” shared Jared Mitchem, regional vice president for the Tennessee Valley Authority.
According to Chris Crumbly, executive director of IDEA, the outreach program for high school students and teachers in North Alabama will highlight TVA and its unique industry partners. Program planners anticipate a launch in 2024 in select communities.
“TVA represents cutting-edge nuclear deployment,” said Crumbly. “Nuclear technologies are also integral to activities like space nuclear propulsion and NASA’s moon to Mars programs. Core systems engineering principles like systems thinking, life cycles, and systems modeling can use the excitement of nuclear technologies to engage students and prompt them to consider participating in the engineering workforce of the future.”
For our region to thrive, strategic partnerships with the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal agencies like NASA, equal economic and technological strength. Dozens of federal agencies on Redstone Arsenal, plus a legion of industries have made Huntsville one of the nation’s leading brain trusts.
“Responding to national imperatives to meet community and national needs is a constant call to duty,” said Crumbly. “We are delighted to partner with TVA in raising awareness and expectations for an inspired, motivated, and prepared workforce that will take us into the next century.”
###
About The Institute for Digital Enterprise Advancement
The Institute for Digital Enterprise Advancement addresses workforce gaps identified by the U.S. Department of Defense, recognized throughout complex project industries, and addressed through skills-based training in systems engineering, digital transformation, and model-based systems engineering. Ultimately, processes such as these increase efficiency in design and change implementation and spur innovation through accelerated research, development, prototyping, demonstration, qualification, and integration of enhanced manufacturing and process capabilities.
About The Tennessee Valley Authority
The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation’s largest public power supplier, delivering energy to 10 million people across seven southeastern states. TVA was established 90 years ago to serve this region and the nation by developing innovative solutions to solve complex challenges. TVA’s unique mission focuses on energy, environmental stewardship, and economic development. With one of the largest, most diverse, and cleanest energy systems – including nuclear, hydro, solar, gas, and advanced technologies – TVA is a leader in our nation’s drive toward a clean energy future.
TVA is a corporate agency of the United States, receiving no taxpayer funding, deriving virtually all of its revenues from sales of electricity. In addition to operating and investing its revenues in its electric system, TVA provides flood control, navigation, and land management for the Tennessee River system, and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation. Learn more at Energy System of the Future.
