Army program trains new generation of scientists

Army program trains new generation of scientists

The U.S. Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) has recently held a graduation ceremony for its inaugural Minority Undergraduate Summer Internship Program.

The 10-week program is geared towards college sophomores and juniors and designed to encourage students to pursue careers in science and engineering.

This summer's eight participants had a chance to gain practical experience and apply what they learned in classrooms by working on projects which integrated science, technology and engineering under the supervision of leading specialists in their fields.

"In addition to hands-on research, the students were exposed to the inner-workings of the government workplace in the hopes that they would familiarize themselves with the culture and later be attracted to a government career," says Cindy Backhaus, ECBC workforce development officer.

Those who would like to boost their skills and join prestigious and well-paying professions can select from a variety of programs in engineering or applied science offered by institutions around the country.

Many schools will also accommodate busy adults who are attracted by careers in technology by offering an option of completing an online degree.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some engineering specialties will experience a double-digit growth in demand for their skills over the next seven years. The top 10 percent in the field earn more than $100,000 a year.