Springfield Technical Community College hosted its first-ever Trailblazers in STEM Conference on Friday, Feb. 14, bringing together students, alumni and industry professionals to inspire the next generation of leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Held in Scibelli Hall’s Auditorium and on the Seventh Floor, the event aimed to increase awareness of STEM careers while promoting education, professional development and career exploration. Attendees, which included students from area high schools as well as STCC students, engaged in insightful panel discussions, networked with experts and explored educational opportunities.

A highlight of the conference was the distinguished panel of STCC alumni and STEM professionals who shared their unique career paths and challenges. The panelists included:

  • Jennifer DeForge, an STCC graduate who now teaches at the college and works as an architectural designer. Her journey began at STCC, where she found mentorship and encouragement to pursue her passion for architecture. “STCC gave me the foundation to go on to UMass for a sustainable architecture degree and then to Boston Architectural College for a master’s in sustainable design,” she said. DeForge continues to bring industry insights to her students while staying active in the field.
  • Tracy Routhier, Director of Internal Operations at Fontaine Bros., Inc., shared her inspiring career shift from human resources to construction management. After facing a layoff and becoming a single mother, she enrolled in STCC’s construction management program. “I saw opportunity and wanted to make it my own,” said Routhier, who steadily advanced to her leadership role.
  • Amanda Alkam, Quality Engineer, spoke about her non-linear career path that began at STCC and led to a biomedical engineering degree from the University of Connecticut. Her journey included roles in research, development and clinical settings before transitioning to quality engineering to balance career and motherhood. “We all started at STCC, and it led us to where we are now. Passion and innovation can take you anywhere,” Alkam said.
  • Maeliz Colon, a Mechanical Design Engineer at Robert W. Hall Consulting Engineers Inc., highlighted her role as an advocate for community college students. A first-generation college graduate, Colon emphasized the importance of representation in STEM fields and her work with the Society of Women Engineers Community College affinity group.
  • Dr. Kimberly Reese, Veteran Academic Counselor at STCC, shared her transition from a scientist with a background in microbiology and biotechnology to her current role in academic counseling. Although her career journey took her away from the lab, her passion for STEM and learning remains strong.

Moderated by Kris Norris, STEM Coach at STCC, the panel discussion resonated with attendees by showcasing diverse career paths and emphasizing the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and continuous learning.

Following the panel, representatives from Mount Holyoke College, Western New England University and Elms College spoke about STEM opportunities at their institutions. Each school featured a student speaker who shared personal experiences, offering a glimpse into campus life and academic journeys in STEM fields.

The event concluded with a financial literacy presentation and a resource fair featuring tabling from local colleges and STCC organizations. Students connected with educational resources and gained insights into navigating their career paths.

For more information about STEM programs at STCC, visit www.stcc.edu/stem.