Wilmington, Del. — Today, U.S. Senators Chris Coons and Lisa Blunt Rochester, and Congresswoman Sarah McBride (all D-Del.) announced that Delaware will receive a federal investment of approximately $8 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) for STEM research capacity and workforce development. The award was granted to E-CORE RII: Strengthening Partnerships for Advancing Research Capacity in Delaware, a project led by the University of Delaware in collaboration with Delaware State University, Delaware Technical and Community College, Goldey-Beacom College, and Wilmington University.
“The future of advanced manufacturing runs through Delaware, and investing in STEM access ensures that Delawareans will be prepared to work in these high-skilled, high-paying careers,” said Senator Chris Coons. “As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’m thrilled to have secured this federal funding to support programs and education for the future of our nation right here in the First State.”
“I’m excited that a new federal investment has been secured to expand Delaware’s STEM research capacity and build our workforce,” said Senator Blunt Rochester, member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. “The future of U.S. leadership in critical and emerging industries relies on the investments and strategic planning of today. This funding from NSF will help grow Delaware’s capacity to lead in STEM while supporting collaboration among numerous partners in the state to help us reach our long-term goals.”
“I’m thrilled to congratulate the University of Delaware in partnership with Delaware State University and Delaware Technical and Community College in receiving $8 million in federal funding to increase our STEM research capacity across the state and bolster workforce development,” said Congresswoman Sarah McBride, member of the House Committee on Space, Science and Technology. “In today’s rapidly evolving world, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — STEM — are no longer just subjects taught in schools. They are the foundation of our modern economy, the driving force behind innovation, and the key to unlocking opportunities for a better, more prosperous future. For too long, individuals and families have struggled to access pathways to well-paying, stable STEM jobs that allow them to thrive. This program will address this by strengthening the education and access to these vital jobs. ”
“We are excited to partner with Delaware State University, Delaware Technical Community College, Goldey-Beacom College and Wilmington University to support developing a highly skilled, technical workforce and increase our networked and interdisciplinary researchers across the state to position Delaware at the forefront of research and economic prosperity,” said Dr. Amy Slocum, Director, Delaware EPSCoR.
“Delaware State University is excited to be part of this initiative, alongside our other higher education partners in Delaware, to invest in additional STEM research and workforce development across the state,” said Dr. Tony Allen, President of Delaware State University. “This additional federal funding will enhance research opportunities at DSU and help prepare more young Delawareans for jobs in STEM. I want to thank our federal delegation for securing this important funding.”
“We are grateful to our Delaware congressional delegation for their continued commitment to Delaware Tech and appreciate the opportunity to partner with Delaware’s other higher ed institutions on this National Science Foundation grant,” said Dr. Mark T. Brainard, President of Delaware Technical Community College. “This funding will help us continue to support science, technology, engineering, and math education at Delaware Tech through our annual STEM Expos and workforce development camps for STEM students.”
“Goldey-Beacom College is delighted to be part of this transformative investment, which will not only bolster Delaware’s leadership in advanced manufacturing but also provide our students with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in high-skilled, high-paying careers. We will work with our partners to ensure that Delawareans are prepared to shape the future of innovation, both locally and beyond. This funding is a crucial step in creating a workforce that embraces research and will serve to prepare our students for today’s challenges and equip them to drive tomorrow’s breakthroughs,” said Dr. Colleen Perry Keith, President of Goldey-Beacom College.
“This collaboration represents a positive step forward for Delaware’s STEM initiatives, creating pathways for students to gain hands-on experience and education tailored to meet industry demand,” said Dr. LaVerne Harmon, President of Wilmington University. “We are excited to be part of a project that focuses on building an inclusive, collaborative research ecosystem and supporting entrepreneurial training. It also aligns with Wilmington University’s commitment to innovation and workforce development, as well as career-oriented academic programs. By strengthening partnerships and resources, we’re helping students succeed in a global society.”
The project endeavors to create an inclusive, open, collaborative research ecosystem as well as to train and retain a highly skilled workforce. It focuses on strengthening the state’s data and intellectual property infrastructure, improving communication and access to STEM programming, supporting entrepreneurial training and fostering cross-institutional collaborations. By addressing these needs, this project will boost cutting-edge research carried out by interdisciplinary teams, resulting in substantial gains in Delaware’s knowledge-based economy.
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