About the initiative

Expanding equitable access to STEM across Howard County.

STEM Forward is a community-based CAPA-HC project focused on underrepresented and underserved students. It builds on TechGirls and is supported by $1,046,000 in FY2026 federal Community Project Funding administered by NASA.

Our mission

Bring hands-on STEM learning opportunities to students across Howard County. Through coding, robotics, engineering, earth science, and project-based activities, students build curiosity, confidence, creativity, and essential problem-solving skills.

CAPA-HC — the Chinese American Parent Association of Howard County — is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2015. Its three core services are Family & Youth Education, Community Outreach, and Civic Engagement. STEM Forward sits inside that education mission and is open to the broader Howard County community.

CAPA-HC homepage Official STEM Forward page TechGirls website

What we believe

Every child deserves early, inspiring, and equitable STEM opportunities.
Near-peer tutors can spark confidence in ways a worksheet cannot.
High school mentors grow as leaders while younger students grow as scientists.
School partnerships make enrichment sustainable.

Federal support

The award followed passage of the federal spending bill and was secured with support from Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth, Senator Chris Van Hollen, and Senator Angela Alsobrooks.

Community partners hold a ceremonial check for $1,046,000 for the CAPA-HC STEM Forward Program on April 20, 2026 — $1,046,000 federal Community Project Funding for STEM Forward · April 20, 2026. Administered by NASA.

“When we spark an interest in STEM from an early age, we open new doors of opportunity for Maryland students.”
Senator Chris Van Hollen

“This federal investment transforms the lives of young people in Howard County.”
Senator Angela Alsobrooks

“Programs like these prepare students for 21st-century opportunities and empower the next generation of leaders.”
Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth