STEAM Stories: Community Narratives Inspire Careers

The poster above captures part of Allison Cartmell Emmerson’s STEAM Story to help inspire local seventh graders to see themselves in STEAM Careers.

In rural communities, students often have limited exposure to the vast career possibilities within Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Without visible role models or clear pathways, many young people struggle to see how their skills and interests can translate into meaningful careers.

That’s where STEAM Stories, a Community and Career Connected Learning (CCCL) project developed through the OHIO Rural Teacher Fellowship, steps in. Led by Crystal Barnett-Sheaves, a seventh-grade science teacher at Marietta High School and a third-year OHIO Rual Fellow, this initiative is creating a digital and visual collection of career journeys to inspire students across the Mid-Ohio Valley and beyond.

STEAM Stories is more than just a career resource—it’s a bridge between students and professionals in their communities. The project collects real-life stories from post-secondary students, professors, and professionals in various STEAM fields. Through digital storytelling and visually engaging posters, students gain insight into the diverse and sometimes unexpected paths that lead to careers in these industries.

STEAM Stories will not only inspire curiosity and career exploration but also help educators integrate real-world connections seamlessly into their teaching.

STEAM Stories has the potential to grow by demonstrating how storytelling and community engagement can ignite student ambition. We can't achieve this vision alone. We need your help to showcase the incredible diversity of STEAM careers and inspire the next generation! If you have a compelling story to share, please share it with our students by clicking the button below.