Advancing Manufacturing by
Educating Tomorrow’s Workforce
stem+M is a bold answer to the National Imperative for Industrial Skills (NIIS), a movement to spark curiosity and build confidence in skilled manufacturing. Through hands-on learning and real-world exploration, we connect students with the technologies and careers shaping the future of industry.
Who We Are
About stem+M
stem+M was created by Diversified Educational Systems (DES) in partnership with Pitsco Education to tackle the critical skills gap in manufacturing. Our stem+M program is an innovative curriculum that integrates STEM education with a focused emphasis on Manufacturing (the “+M”). This approach is designed to engage middle school students with hands-on activities and manufacturing career exposure. Educating Tomorrow’s Workforce is our mission, ensuring that today’s learners are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Who We Are
Combined 115+ Years of Career and Technical Education Experience
Diversified Educational Systems (DES) has provided turnkey program design and facility solutions for career and technical environments since 1965. Collectively, our experienced staff of former educators, designers, and program specialists ensures solutions that work in the demands of the real world.
Pitsco Education is the leading provider of K-12 educational solutions nationwide and specializes in middle school career exploration. Since 1971, our products, activities, curriculum, and solutions have promoted positive learning experiences and continued classroom success through hands-on applications that connect school, community, and work.
BRIDGING THE Manufacturing SKILLS GAP
A National Security Priority
The manufacturing industry faces a critical skills gap, with hundreds of thousands of jobs going unfilled each year—a number that could reach 2.1 million by 2030. This shortage poses a clear and present threat to our economy and national security. stem+M addresses this challenge by introducing students to the possibilities within manufacturing at the middle school level. Our one-semester course aligns with 95% of the ITEEA Standards for Technological Engineering Literacy, ensuring that students not only gain technical knowledge but also develop essential soft skills like problem-solving and collaboration.
Learn how stem+M can inspire and prepare your students to be part of the solution to this national crisis.
Hands-on Learning for Real-world skills
stem+M’s curriculum is designed to immerse students in the world of manufacturing through six engaging pathways:
CAreer Exploration
Building Futures in Manufacturing
At stem+M, career exploration is more than a classroom activity, it’s a gateway to opportunity. We introduce students to the world of skilled manufacturing through hands-on experiences that highlight real technologies, tools, and career paths. From robotics to precision machining, our curriculum connects learning with purpose.
Reclaiming the Prestige of American Manufacturing
Manufacturing is the backbone of innovation and national strength. stem+M is restoring its prestige by showing students the creativity, impact, and pride behind making things that matter. These careers aren’t just essential—they’re resilient, often requiring human skills that AI can’t replace.
Beyond College: Real Paths to Success
Not every student needs a four-year degree to thrive. stem+M empowers learners to explore high-demand, high-paying careers through technical training, apprenticeships, and direct-to-workforce options. We help students find the path that fits—whether it leads to a factory floor, a design lab, or a leadership role in industry.
A Turnkey Solution for Educators At Scale
stem+M is designed as a complete turnkey program, making it easy for any teacher to lead, regardless of their background in Career and Technical Education (CTE). Our curriculum is student-led, so educators can focus on guiding rather than teaching, allowing for seamless integration into any classroom.
Our program includes everything students need to succeed: curriculum, hands-on equipment, learning management, technology, and furniture—all integrated to enhance the learning experience. Hands-on materials are complemented by on-screen content, and students work in both small groups and as a whole class, with furniture and storage specifically designed for a functional classroom.
Student assessments and instructor resources are supported by a learning management system, ensuring that the program is both comprehensive and effective.
This solution has been designed from the ground up to enhance learning and facilitate instructor success.
Want to see it in action? For a closer look at our course content and hands-on learning approach:
LET’S BUILD WHAT’S NEXT
stem+M is a strategic response to a national challenge. By connecting education to workforce needs, we help students see a future they can build with their own hands. It equips educators with a solution they can rely on, and helps families know their children are gaining skills that open real opportunities. If you’re looking for a partner to help your district deliver results, or an organization looking to improve the future of America’s workforce, stem+M is ready to work with you.
Ready to bring stem+M to your school?