This summer, classrooms and factories had more in common than you might think. Thanks to the Alabama STEM Council’s 2025 STEM Teacher Externship Program, 43 educators traded their whiteboards for hard hats, lab coats, and safety goggles to bring real-world STEM experience back to their students.
Over June and July, these teacher externs represented 28 schools across 21 school systems, immersing themselves in Alabama’s leading industries. From auto manufacturing plants to renewable energy facilities, externs gained firsthand insight into how math, science, and technology power the state’s economy.
Why it matters:
When teachers step into industry settings, they don’t just learn new technical skills. They return with stories, context, and inspiration that help students see why what they’re learning in class matters. “The externship program strengthens the bridge between education and industry, and helps students envision their future right here in Alabama,” said Lawrence Cooper, Program Manager for the Alabama STEM Council.
Hands-on learning, lasting impact
Externs spent their time touring facilities, shadowing professionals, taking part in technical training, and even contributing to real projects. These experiences gave them a deeper understanding of workplace expectations, soft skills, safety practices, and the abilities Alabama employers value most.
Industry partners across the state
This year’s externships were made possible by a wide range of host sites, including Mercedes-Benz USI, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, HudsonAlpha, Georgia-Pacific, and more than two dozen additional organizations. Together, they opened their doors to show teachers, and ultimately students, are presented with available opportunities in Alabama’s workforce.
Schools represented
From Hoover to Dothan and Tuscaloosa to Troy, participating schools spanned all seven of Alabama’s workforce regions. Externs hailed from places like Jackson-Olin High School, Luverne High School, Hazel Green High School, Charles Henderson High School, and the Tuscaloosa County Career & Technology Academy, to name just a few.
View the full list of partnerships and school participation here.
Looking ahead
The Alabama STEM Council is already looking toward the future. Teachers, schools, and businesses interested in joining the next round of externships can get involved by emailing externships@alabamastemcouncil.org. By participating, they play a direct role in preparing Alabama students for the careers of tomorrow. Learn more about the STEM Teacher Externship Program.
Since its creation in 2020, the Alabama STEM Council has worked to enhance STEM education, career awareness, and workforce development across the state. Programs like the Teacher Externship ensure that Alabama classrooms don’t just teach theory, but actively connect learning to workforce development.
