Garver, Frisco ISD partner for STEM scholarships

Each year, employees in Garver’s Frisco, Texas office dedicate parts of their spring to mentor and guide students from the Frisco Independent School District’s Career and Education Technology Center’s Project Lead the Way program through STEM lessons.

Even though the experience was a little different this year because of social distancing guidelines, the program was still completed and culminated in GarverGives providing scholarships to students choosing to pursue STEM careers.

In the end, $2,000 in scholarships were awarded to the winners of the district’s annual program that helps prepare students for careers in engineering and other STEM industries. Over a five-year partnership with the event held by Frisco ISD and Project Lead the Way, GarverGives’ contribution has totaled nearly $13,000 in scholarships.

“I’ve been participating in this event for the last three years as a judge and mentor, and each year it keeps getting better and better,” said Garver Transportation Project Engineer Dusan Jolovic. “I’m always amazed at what the students come up with, and I can’t wait to see how they contribute to our profession someday.”

Jolovic joined five others from Garver’s Frisco office in serving as mentors for more than 20 student teams. The process began by meeting in person once each month, but completed with virtual meetings and judging. Students submitted video presentations of their ideas and products, completed while using 3D printers, various design software, and other available supplies to achieve their goals. Garver judges later awarded scholarships to three winners and one Judge’s Favorite award.

In addition to partnering with Frisco ISD, GarverGives committees have also worked with Project Lead the Way students in Arkansas and Oklahoma in a continued support of STEM education initiatives and the next generation of engineers.

To learn more about Garver’s charitable giving, visit our GarverGives page.