A Feather on FLATER's Hat

FLATE (Florida Advanced Technological Education) Center recently received STEMflorida, Inc.’s “Best Practice Award for Excellence Integrating Needs of STEM-Enabled Programs into Engaging Curriculum and Educational Outreach Resources.” The award was presented on June 24 during the STEM Florida Think Tank at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport in Orlando, FL., and recognized FLATE’s role in spearheading efforts to launch a national, industry-recognized, STEM-focused credential system that supports the educational and workforce needs of local manufacturers.

FLATE promulgates the idea that STEM provides our future workforce with the skills they need to achieve academically now, and excel professionally later. Since the establishment of the Center in 2004, FLATE has served as a leader in creating relevant educational programs such as the statewide A.S. degree in Engineering Technology, manufacturing industry focused lesson plans, and professional development opportunities. The Center has also provided succinct classroom and/or homework vignettes to support K-20 science and math instruction while demonstrating how math and science are means to developing engineering-related concepts. Dr. Marilyn Barger, executive director of FLATE says “By implementing this system we are employing industry’s voice and expertise to provide competency-based, customized education and training for the manufacturing workforce.”

For information on the award, and FLATE’s curriculum and/or professional development resources contact Dr. Marilyn Barger, executive director of FLATE at HCC-Brandon at barger@fl-ate.org, or visit http://www.fl-ate.org/.