BRDG Bridge to Connect

Scale UP effort

BRDG: Investing in First-Generation and underrepresented STEM Talent PURPOSE - Bridges the gap between college and career, helping students transition from a student mindset to a confident, successful employee mindset. - Connects high-potential first-generation STEM students with industry professionals, mentors, and real-world opportunities. PROGRAMS - Innovation Challenge: Multidisciplinary teams tackle real-world sustainability challenges, developing skills in teamwork, leadership, communication, project management, budgeting, and accountability. - Launchpad: The winning team further develops its product with an experienced entrepreneur and prepares for an investor pitch and potential launch. - Leadership Development: Workshops and mentoring build skills in career planning, résumés, LinkedIn, interviewing, financial literacy, communication, and leadership. OUTCOMES - Engages up to 100 students annually from 12 Southern California universities. - Students present research-backed solutions and prototypes to industry leaders, engineers, executives, and investors. - Builds a diverse STEM talent pipeline: 33% female and 68% from underrepresented communities in STEM.