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 have opportunities to do coursework for college credit or an industry certification. The Bridge Program is FREE.

Application period for Summer 2025 has closed. Application for Summer 2026 will be available in late January 2026. Stay informed by sign-up for our newsletter.

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 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Students who are accepted will complete:

(1) Overview Orientation Session

One-day introductory session to review program requirements, NOVA degree pathways, campus life, and tours. At this time, students will confirm their session selections and any optional coursework they want to take during the summer.

(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.

(2) Industry and Partner Site Visits

Half 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, AWS, Micron Technology, and local data centers.

(1) Close-out Review Session

One-day final wrap-up session reviewing NOVA pathways and next steps for students.

Students who complete the above program requirements will be eligible for a $200 stipend for the Summer 2025 program.

Motivated students interested in obtaining college credit or credit for prior learning can take asynchronous courses in SDV-101 (seniors only) or OSHA-10, or even study for the Google IT Support Professional certificate at no cost.

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