Columbia Power & Water Systems (CPWS), in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is proud to announce a major investment in the future of local youth. The Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee has been awarded a Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation STEM Center.
The new center will serve as a hub for innovation, providing Club members with access to high-tech tools and hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This initiative aims to bridge the educational gap and inspire the next generation of Columbia’s workforce to pursue careers in technical and scientific fields.
"At CPWS, we are committed to more than just providing essential services; we are committed to the growth of our community," said CPWS CEO Jonathan Hardin. "Partnering with TVA to support this STEM Center allows us to help spark curiosity and provide a foundation for lifelong learning for our local students."
The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation’s STEM Centers are designed to provide safe, engaging environments where children can learn everything from robotics and 3D printing to coding and chemistry. By integrating these resources into the Boys & Girls Club, the program ensures that local youth have consistent access to the technology required to succeed in a modern economy.
“Igniting students’ interest in STEM education is essential to preparing the next generation of skilled workers our region will depend on,” TVA Government & Community Relations Manager LaKevia Perry said. “As today’s workforce retires, we need young people who are prepared and eager to step into high‑demand roles to help build the energy systems of the future. That’s why TVA is so committed to investing in local programs that spark curiosity, expand opportunity and strengthen the talent pipeline – both here in Columbia and across the Tennessee Valley.”
TVA President and CEO Don Moul added, “Inspiring young people to pursue careers in STEM fields is so important. A workforce with specialized skills means more economic opportunities for people across our seven-state region and more opportunities for our students to achieve high-paying jobs that will support their families and make their communities a better place to live when they grow up.”
The addition of the STEM Center marks a significant milestone for the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee, enhancing their ability to provide high-quality after-school programming that prepares students for the challenges of tomorrow.