Building STEM Identity and Preparing Students for an AI-Powered Future
Featuring Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab, on Building Champions for Life with host Kirk Spahn
What does it take to prepare students for a future where technology is evolving faster than ever? It starts with helping them believe in their own potential.
In this inspiring episode of Building Champions for Life, SmartLab CEO Dr. Jennifer Berry joins host Kirk Spahn to explore the transformative power of STEM Identity, career-connected learning, and the durable skills students need to thrive in an AI-powered world.
Drawing on her unconventional journey from professional dancer to business leader and education innovator, Dr. Berry shares how confidence, adaptability, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace challenges shaped her career and continue to influence her vision for education.
The conversation explores how SmartLab’s hands-on, project-based learning experiences help students develop STEM Identity: the belief that I belong, I can master rigorous challenges, and my ideas have impact. Dr. Berry emphasizes why critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and empathy are becoming increasingly essential as artificial intelligence transforms the workforce.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Berry challenges educators, families, businesses, and communities to work together to create meaningful learning opportunities that help students discover their purpose, recognize their potential, and confidently shape their futures.
Listen to discover why preparing students for tomorrow requires more than teaching technology. It requires empowering them to believe in what they can achieve.