STEM Outreach

Outreach Programs

Bridge Programs

Are you a current high school junior or senior who’s not sure what to do after high school?

NOVA’s Bridge Program in Engineering Technology (ET), Data Center Operations (DCO), Information Technology (IT), and Computer Science (CS) can help you determine your next steps and set you on the right path for an in-demand technology career. Explore these career pathways through hands-on activities and visits to tech companies where you could work in the future! Students will be introduced to NOVA's campuses, find out more about student services and financial aid, and explore NOVA’s Information and Engineering Technology Programs and opportunities for students.

The Bridge Program is FREE for all participants!

Students who are selected to participate in the program will be notified by April 3. Students will then select their session dates and provide additional personal information necessary for participation in the program. 

The Bridge Program runs from late June through mid-August. Sessions will be held at various NOVA campuses throughout the summer. Students will select their sessions based on their proximity to a local campus and career interests. Most sessions will run from 9:00am to 3:00pm. NOVA will provide bus transportation for the site visits.

Students who are accepted will complete:

(1) Overview Orientation Session

One-day session to explore NOVA degree pathways, financial aid, campus life, and program requirements. Includes campus tour and student panel discussion.
June 22 - July 1

(2) Activity Sessions

Sessions focused on hands-on activities around engineering, engineering technology, information technology, and computer science. Example activities include cybersecurity labs, computer assembly, and pneumatic simulators.
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from July 6 - August 6

(2) Industry and Partner Site Visits

Half-day to full-day tours of academic partners and industries connected to NOVA's degree pathways. Partners include George Mason University engineering and computer science labs, Microsoft, Micron Technology, and local data centers.
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from July 6 - August 6

(1) Final Review Session

One-day final wrap-up session with a review of NOVA pathways, IET faculty presentations and panel, and discussion on next steps for students.
Week of August 11 at Annandale Campus

Questions? Contact Natasha Schuh-Nuhfer at nschuhnuhfer@nvcc.edu.

STEM Expos and Events

We engage with local STEM events at libraries and schools, participate in Maker Faires, and bring STEM to large community events and educational conferences such as Youth For Tomorrow's Country Fair & Auctions. We also coordinate and participate in STEM Days on NOVA campuses.
For more information and request STEM Expo support, contact: Christine Hirst Bernhardt at lchbernhardt@nvcc.edu.

STEM Resources

Check out these STEM activities and websites for virtual learning that include challenges, tasks, and games for students from PreK to College.

Past Sessions - Video Recordings