College Now, in collaboration with Sherwin Williams, recently launched an engaging summer program designed to expose middle and high school students to career opportunities in various fields, mainly focusing on STEM and business. Held over two-week sessions, this educational program took students from four CMSD schools on a hands-on journey into the world of business, chemistry and more.

Students made their first stop at Magnet, where they had the unique opportunity to mix their own paint and explore the chemistry behind different pigments. They also tackled a STEM/business challenge where they designed and tested miniature cars. The goal was to create the fastest, most cost-effective vehicle capable of carrying the most weight, all while managing a budget for purchasing parts. In addition to hands-on activities, students met with career speakers from Sherwin-Williams, including lead chemists, HR professionals and color theorists. This exposure allowed them to explore the realistic applications of STEM and business skills, providing an intricate look at potential career paths.

The program also included a visit to Day Glow– the facility that provides the pigment used in the paint for traffic cones, road signs and more– where students created neon pigments and then used them to produce custom paint.

The impact of this program was profound. For some students, it sparked an interest in pursuing a career in STEM or business, while others discovered that these fields might not be their calling. As Kristen Gramajo, manager of advising programs & services, notes, “Exposure is important for both ends of the spectrum. It helps some students realize their passion for a career, while others learn that it’s not the right fit for them.”

In addition to the program’s core activities, students also engaged in practical tasks such as obtaining library cards and accessing resources to support their projects. They even participated in a “Shark Tank”-style activity where they developed and pitched their own paint colors, combining STEM knowledge with business skills.

This program emphasizes the importance of hands-on career exploration, providing students with valuable insights and experiences that will help them make informed decisions about their futures.