What is STEMM-Up?

STEMM-Up is a job readiness program for people with disabilities that offers training, coaching, job shadowing, and internships in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM). You will learn skills and strategies to assist with obtaining and maintaining employment in STEMM fields.

Why should I join STEMM-Up?

  • You will learn and grow to become more job ready.
  • Find out about STEMM jobs that might be a good fit for you.
  • Get help and support on your path to a career in STEMM.
  • Earn credentials for new jobs or a bigger role.
  • Build your professional network to find new job opportunities.

Have questions or want to sign up?

What would I do in STEMM-Up?

You will be participating in self-paced career building skill building. You will work with your VR Counselor to get referred to STEMM-Up. Once you are signed up, you will be assigned to a Career Pathway Coordinator to get started on the following activities:

  • Take and participate in career assessment and planning.
  • Familiarize yourself with workplace socialization skills.
  • Take part in employment readiness skills training.
  • Learn job interviewing strategies.
  • Become knowledgeable about work incentives and receive benefits counseling.
  • Improve your self-advocacy skills.
  • Participate in a mentoring and self-help support group.
  • Meet and be inspired by motivational and inspirational speakers.
  • Attend hybrid field trips to STEMM companies.
  • Secure paid internships with STEMM companies.

Do you qualify for STEMM-Up?

  • You are 14 years old or older and
  • You are currently receiving services with Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) or Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS) or you are eligible to receive MRS or LRS services and
  • You are interested in a career in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, or Medicine)
  • In Michigan, you live within the districts of Detroit Renaissance, Eastern, Marquette, Northern, or Oakland & Wayne. Please click here to see the MRS Office Locator for the office closest to you.
  • In Louisiana, you live within the regions of New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, or Monroe.

What does the process look like?

  • An MRS or LRS counselor will determine your eligibility for STEMM-Up and make the referral for you to begin. Your MRS or LRS counselor must make a referral before STEMM-Up can start working with you.
  • If you have an MRS or LRS counselor, talk with them. If you are not currently working with MRS or LRS, you can:
  • Call (517) 353-5060 (Michigan) or (337) 262-5353 (Louisiana)
  • Once MRS or LRS refers you, you will meet with a STEMM-Up Career Pathway Coordinator (CPC) to begin on the path to your career.