Algenol is proud of our work to increase the awareness and desire of students to focus on careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).  As a STEM company, Algenol knows first hand the need to foster an advanced workforce with expertise and ingenuity in these fields of study.

Through our partnership with Florida Gulf Coast University and several area public and private schools we have created a multi-faceted program that promotes the development of skills in problem solving, discovery and exploratory learning.  Our STEM Initiatives include:

FGCU Scholarship Fund.  Algenol has pledged $250,000 over 5 years to fund scholarships for juniors and seniors at Florida Gulf Coast University majoring in biology, chemistry, biotechnology, environmental engineering and mathematics.

The ALGENOL STEM Challenge.  Algenol sponsors and hosts a series of STEM related challenges held throughout the year at different venues in southwest Florida that partners students with professional scientists and engineers to inspire ingenuity and an interest in these important fields of study.  

For the past two years Algenol has hosted a STEM challenge at our commercial development campus where students in grades K-12 build and compete in solar powered miniature boat races. To date, Algenol has distributed more than $2,500 to the winners of the various categories during these events. Participation in 2013 more than doubled in size from 2012. On January 26, 2013, approximately 250 kids were applying STEM principles with encouragement from Algenol’s staff in a fun and energized environment. Algenol looks forward to continuing our efforts to motivate tomorrow’s STEM leaders and innovators.

Internships for Students and Teachers.  Algenol has a robust and on-going internship program that provides opportunities to both students and teachers alike. Several former student interns are currently busy full-time employees at our campus. As well, summer teacher interns are incorporating real world experience from our world-class laboratories into their daily lesson plans.  Please see additional information under the Career Opportunities tab for how to apply for an internship with the Company.

Reading Initiative.  Research shows that students who do not master the skill of reading in elementary school may never catch up.  Through inquiry and research, we have partnered with two local elementary schools to help improve the reading skills of their students.  Reading Specialists, Principals and Algenol executives are currently piloting a program that utilizes Kindle Fires in the classroom.  We hope to expand this program with community support.

Teacher in-service training.  To further inspire both students and teachers in the classroom, Algenol is working to conduct in-service training for teachers in the STEM subjects.  By collaborating with the Foundation for Public Schools we are working to create interesting training sessions for teachers that they can use to help create dynamic science courses for their students.

STEM Team of Southwest Florida.  We are proud to be members of the STEM team of Southwest Florida.  The STEM Team is comprised of local businesses working together to increase the awareness of STEM careers among K-12 students in our area.  For more information: STEM Team of Southwest Florida