Ingalls Shipbuilding Awards $95,600 in STEM Grants to Local Schools

Huntington Ingalls Industries’ (HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division has recently announced the recipients of $95,600 in STEM grants awarded to 22 local schools and educational organizations. This initiative aims to promote innovation and critical thinking among youth by supporting hands-on projects, classroom technology enhancements, and STEM-focused curriculums.

Empowering the Next Generation of Critical Thinkers

According to Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette, STEM education goes beyond formulas and theories—it is about providing hands-on experiences that inspire the next generation of critical thinkers. Blanchette, who is an engineer by trade, emphasizes the importance of sparking curiosity and encouraging problem-solving skills at a young age. By investing in programs that lay a strong foundation for future engineers, shipbuilders, and industry leaders, Ingalls Shipbuilding is playing a crucial role in shaping the future workforce.

Community Outreach and Workforce Development

The annual STEM grant program is part of Ingalls Shipbuilding’s broader community outreach and workforce development efforts. Educators are invited to apply for funding of up to $5,000 for specific projects falling under science, technology, engineering, or mathematics categories. The program received over 90 applications this year, showcasing the high demand for resources to support STEM education.

Grant Recipients for the 2024-2025 School Year

The 22 organizations that have received grants for the upcoming academic year include:

• Bayou View Middle School (Miss.)
• Biloxi Junior High School (Miss.)
• Daphne Middle School (Ala.)
• East Central High School (Miss.)
• Gautier Middle School (Miss.)
• Gulfport High School (Miss.)
• Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia (Miss.)
• Moss Point Career & Technical Education Center (Miss.)
• North Bay Elementary (Miss.)
• Ocean Springs Middle School (Miss.)
• Ocean Springs Upper Elementary (Miss.)
• Pascagoula-Gautier Career & Technical Center (Miss.)
• Pascagoula High School (Miss.)
• Perkinston Elementary School (Miss.)
• Picayune Memorial High School Career and Technical Center (Miss.)
• St. Martin High School (Miss.)
• St. Patrick Catholic High School (Miss.)
• Theodore High School (Ala.)
• Walter Anderson Museum of Art (Miss.)
• Woolmarket Elementary School (Miss.)

Each grant recipient will utilize the funds to implement various STEM projects ranging from coding and robotics to virtual reality and digital marketing. These initiatives will provide students with valuable hands-on experiences and equip them with the skills needed to thrive in STEM fields.

Ingalls Shipbuilding’s commitment to supporting STEM education reflects its dedication to nurturing talent and fostering innovation within the community. By investing in the next generation of STEM leaders, Ingalls Shipbuilding is ensuring a bright future for the maritime industry and beyond.