Community Highlights: Meet Raymond Ealy of STEAM:CODERS

Today we’d like to introduce you to Raymond Ealy.

Raymond, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started STEAM:CODERS in 2015, after noticing the lack of African-Americans in the STEAM fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math fields. Moreover, students were not being prepared to pursue STEAM opportunities.

The goal was to start familiarizing the students with computer science and to build a foundation with a focus on logic, critical thinking and problem solving. These are essential skills that never go out of style.

We have collaborated with a variety of K-12 schools, nonprofit organizations and corporations to provide students with the tools to embrace the STEAM fields, offering classes, workshops camps and field trips. Exposure to STEAM professionals and careers can change a student’s life. We also equip students with computers and internet service, as needed.

Talent is everywhere. But, the lack of training and development has been a weakness in underrepresented and underserved communities. We are part of the solution, along with other nonprofits.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In the early years, finding learning spaces (I.e., classrooms, computer labs and makerspaces) was challenging. We were fortunate to have partners who were willing to accommodate us. Then, we needed equipment; robots, computers and transportation for field trips.

Financial support was needed to help us secure these resources. Thankfully, our partners came through and helped us deliver our services. It’s been a team effort.

As you know, we’re big fans of STEAM:CODERS . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Founded in 2015, STEAM:CODERS is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing disadvantaged students with opportunities to learn the fundamentals of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math (STEAM), by providing them with exciting and educational academic experiences. We educate, inspire and equip students with the knowledge, resources, and skills needed to pursue academic and career opportunities in the STEAM-related fields.

Our team of comes from a variety of disciplines and fields including education, information technology, computer science, art and design. We have gathered together a collection of passionate supporters who share our vision of introducing 1,000,000 students to the fundamentals of STEAM, by 2045.

STEAM:CODERS delivers instruction, field trips, and mentoring to spur interest and help students develop an appreciation for STEAM. We teach logic, critical thinking, and problem solving. We create pathways, so students can embrace the STEAM fields, early in their academic tenures.

Students use the logic, critical thinking, and problem solving skills that they develop in our program to build a foundation that will contribute to the innovation that makes this nation stronger and safer for all.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I enjoyed playing a variety of sports, as a youth. Sitting at a desk learning the fundamentals of education did not inspire me. Yet, along the way, I was able to develop a respect for the importance of education. In my family, there was an emphasis on education and the need to attend college. I was a late bloomer.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.STEAMCODERS.org
• Instagram: @steamcoders