National Defense Education Program (NDEP)
Abstract
The National Defense Education Program (NDEP) fosters and enhances the Department of Defense’s (DoD) ability to access high-quality science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) talent vital to national defense now and in the future. NDEP is executed by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E)). NDEP’s portfolio includes workforce development programs, such as the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) program; Military family programs, such as the Military Child Program (MCP); STEM Education and Outreach; and the Manufacturing Engineering Education Program (MEEP). These programs provide a pathway to the best and the brightest minds through a continuum of DoD workforce development approaches, which include: (1) broadening STEM literacy in K through College continuum to prepare for postsecondary success in STEM disciplines and providing DoD and the Nation enduring access to talent needed to address ever-changing future defense workforce needs; (2) providing awareness of the Department as a STEM workplace of choice for scientists and engineers through programs and outreach; (3) leading the Departmental STEM strategic efforts to ensure alignment with the workforce and mission requirements; and (4) leveraging strategic partners with a shared mission in identifying innovative approaches to developing the Nation's current and future STEM talent. The NDEP aligns to the National Defense Strategy and the DoD science and technology (S&T) priorities. The program is also aligned to the 2018 Federal STEM Education Strategic Plan, and the DoD STEM Strategic Plan. NDEP components engage in assessment and evaluation practices as outlined by the Office of Management and Budget and the Government Accountability Office. The SMART program awards highly competitive scholarships-for-service to undergraduate and graduate students in 21 STEM academic disciplines and hires the students, upon graduation, into DoD's workforce. As part of the SMART experience, scholars engage in internships that allow for relevant hands-on research and work experiences in DoD facilities, thereby enhancing their educational experience. Since its inception as a pilot program in FY 2005, SMART has awarded approximately 3,000 scholarships to students ranging from undergraduate to doctoral studies. To date, approximately 2,000 students have completed their academic pursuit and transitioned into DoD employment. Approximately 1,200 participants have successfully completed the program through their DoD Service commitment, of which 71 percent of those participants continue to be employed by DoD SMART ensures the Department has a steady infusion of high-quality technical talent, prepared in areas of critical importance to DoD, and ready to apply their technical knowledge, skills, and abilities to fulfill DoD’s mission. The MCP provides dependents of members of the Armed Forces educational and outreach opportunities in STEM to prepare for pathways in STEM-related careers. Additionally, MCP also provides assistance to STEM teachers at elementary or secondary schools at which a significant number of military dependents are enrolled. Section 233 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2015, and the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015, authorized the establishment of this Pilot Program. By FY 2021, the pilot program will be absorbed into the DoD STEM portfolio of program activities. STEM Education and Outreach fosters activities to support and cultivate STEM talent with minds for innovation, diversity of thought, and the technical agility to sustain the Department’s competitive edge. In order to build a workforce that brings in an expansion of ideas to solve national defense needs and challenges, the DoD recognizes the need for increased participation of underserved groups in STEM activities and education programs. Initiatives include investing, promoting, and participating in national-level STEM programs and efforts, as well as providing authentic hands-on STEM experiences for students and teachers across the Nation. The DoD is consistently looking for innovative scientific and technological solutions to address current and future military requirements. The MEEP will enhance existing or establish new education programs that support manufacturing engineering.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2021
- Source ID
- 120_0601120D8Z_1_0400_PB_2021
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