Ignited

Ignited, formerly known as Industry Initiatives for Science and Math Education (IISME), is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging the gap between education and industry. Founded in 1985 by 13 visionary Silicon Valley CEOs and UC Berkeley, Ignited has been at the forefront of educational innovation for over four decades.

Mission and Impact

Ignited focuses on empowering educators to inspire the next generation of leaders by providing them with practical industry experience. This approach transforms the way students learn and prepares them for success in the future workforce. Over the years, Ignited has empowered more than 4,000 teachers, who in turn have influenced over 4 million students by integrating innovative thinking and practical skills into K-14 classrooms.

History

Established as IISME in 1985, the organization was initially aimed at enhancing science and math education by fostering partnerships between educators and industry professionals. This pioneering effort contributed significantly to the development of cutting-edge curricula, aligning educational outcomes with industry needs.

Programs and Achievements

Ignited's programs are designed to equip teachers with hands-on industry experiences, allowing them to infuse their classrooms with real-world problem-solving skills. By bringing industry experts into educational settings, Ignited helps educators develop curricula that are relevant and challenging, preparing students for high-demand careers.

Milestones

• Founding in 1985: Ignited was established by 13 Silicon Valley CEOs and UC Berkeley to address gaps in science and math education.
• 40th Anniversary in 2025: Celebrating four decades of transformative contributions to education, Ignited continues to be a vital bridge between industry and classrooms.

Conclusion

Ignited's mission to connect classrooms to careers has made a lasting impact on education. Through its collaborative approach and commitment to innovation, Ignited plays a vital role in ensuring the next generation is equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.

[1] https://ignitenational.org/who-we-are [2] https://www.igniteducation.org/aboutold/history/ [3] https://www.igniteworldwide.org/beginnings/ [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignite! [5] https://www.igniteducation.org