REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE IS PRICELESS!

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At DirectEmployers Institute, we reimagine what preparation and training for young students in STEM and Business can be and envision a more diverse workforce where future career possibilities are endless. Join us to provide real world experiences that are endless.
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Programs for underserved & underexposed students in Indiana Students in Grades 6-12

We offer programs that provide hands-on experience to support STEM career exploration and
preparation during school hours, as an after-school program, and during summer months.

STEM YES!

Our 2012 Youth Enhancement Summer Program (YES!), now called STEM YES!, is an intense summer program for underserved, underrepresented Central Indiana students in grades 10-12 to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) careers in a work-based environment. During STEM YES!, students develop competencies in teamwork, presentation skills, business planning, social etiquette, and customer service as they experience day-to-day work in the business lines of management, product/service development, marketing, finance, and operations.

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Job Shadows & Internships

We place students interested in experiencing a real work environment as part of their career exploration process with Central Indiana employers interested in developing a more diverse workforce. Our close ties to DirectEmployers Association have enabled us to form strong relationships with over 700 companies looking for linkages to talented future employees. We arrange for local employers to provide one day to one-week job shadowing opportunities for grades 6-10. We also work to connect students in grades 11-12 with employers through semester-long internship opportunities.

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Workplace Simulation Program

We offer hands-on STEM educational programming for students in grades 6-12 at our STEM Learning Labs located on-site at select schools, community centers, and other flexible spaces. Learning Labs contain actual workplace equipment and replicate the corporate culture and business practices of our employer partners. This special program offers students the rare opportunity to gain valuable career readiness skills while working side-by-side with STEM professionals in their school environment.

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2

microWorkplace Simulation

161

Job Shadow
Partners

1130

Students Impacted
in 2022

15,000+

Partner Volunteer
Hours

What Parents Have to Say

“Thank you and everyone from DirectEmployers Foundation for allowing Keshon to be a part of the program.  He really enjoyed everything he learned and I think this program was one of the best he has ever been a part of. Thank you all for the time, effort and gifts that you put into this program. This program will truly make a difference in the lives of all those that were able to attend.”

Tyjuana Griffin – STEM YES! Program

“My daughter walked away feeling empowered and excited about setting into the business world upon graduation from college!”

Parent – STEM YES! Program

“I am so happy to know there is an organization that helps to encourage and motivate students to continue striving for the best in their future endeavors as they springboard off your excellent program.”

Parent – STEM YES! Program

“This program will truly make a difference in the lives of all those who were able to attend.”

Parent – STEM YES! Program

Recent News & Posts

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