STEM Ready Pathway Program

STEM Ready supports students in Montgomery County on their path to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mechanical engineering, or applied biotechnology from UMBC-Shady Grove. The program seeks to diversify the region’s workforce by empowering students who are traditionally underrepresented in STEM to pursue careers in the field.

How to Apply

STEM Ready is a partnership between Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), Montgomery College (MC), The Universities at Shady Grove (USG), and University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), along with local and regional industry representatives.


  • Supported local pathway starting sophomore year to college completion

  • Early access to college resources and support

  • Coaching, career readiness training, and professional opportunities

The STEM Ready Pathway

MCPS: Students may apply to STEM Ready as early as their sophomore year to join the program as juniors. After joining the program, students immediately gain access to resources such as mentoring, academic advising, tutoring, career-readiness coaching, networking, and extracurricular academic opportunities.
MC: After enrolling at Montgomery College, students will gain additional access to supports such as job shadowing, STEM certificate options, early access to UMBC resources, pre-transfer advising, and leadership opportunities. Students may also join the program while enrolled at MC.
UMBC-Shady Grove: Access to all of the above will continue after transfer from MC. Students will also gain internship and research opportunities as they work towards a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mechanical engineering, or applied biotechnology.

Is STEM Ready Right for Me?

If you agree with the following statements, STEM Ready is the program for you!

  • I am interested in pursuing a degree in computer science, mechanical engineering, or applied biotechnology.
  • I plan to follow the MCPS -> MC -> UMBC-Shady Grove pathway.
  • I want to layer my high school experience with meaningful career experiences.
  • I hope to join the STEM industry in the greater Montgomery County area after graduation.

STEM Ready staff will be there to guide students through college and career preparation. Hear first-hand from STEM Ready student Ezekiel Maidana and Program Coordinator Abraham Attenoukon.

Take the Next Step

Ready to apply? Visit our how to apply page for details.

Still deciding? Explore FAQs for parents and guardians, attend an information session, or contact us at stemready@umbc.edu.