IMSA STEM Program: A Gateway To Real-World Learning
IMSA STEM is revolutionizing the way high school students engage with the world of sportscar racing at the Roar Before The Rolex 24 event in 2025. The program, aimed at nurturing students’ interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, kicked off on Friday at the Daytona paddock, offering a unique and immersive experience to a group of 30 students from Port Orange high schools.
Behind The Scenes Exploration
The students, handpicked for their passion for STEM or automotive-related fields, were given exclusive access to the inner workings of the event. From touring Michelin’s tire compound to exploring the IMSA Engineering Center and Tech Inspection Area, they had the opportunity to witness firsthand how their classroom knowledge translates into real-world applications in a competitive setting. The highlight of the day was a visit to the GTP team Action Express’ garage, where they interacted with industry experts and key personnel.
Expert Insights And Future Prospects
The students had the privilege of engaging with industry stalwarts like IMSA President John Doonan, Action Express’ director of operations Chris Mitchum, and Cadillac’s LMDh tech lead Aaron Pfeifer. Their interactions provided valuable insights into the practical implications of their academic pursuits and opened doors to potential career paths in the sportscar racing industry.
John Doonan expressed his enthusiasm for the program, emphasizing its importance in shaping the future of the sport. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of STEM partners Gainbridge and Konica Minolta, along with EVERFI’s educational support, in making the program a reality. Doonan stressed the significance of providing students with a platform to apply their classroom learning in a real-world laboratory setting, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Expanding Horizons
The inaugural launch of IMSA STEM marks the beginning of a transformative journey for students, with plans to extend the program throughout the 2025 season. As the program expands to other IMSA race events, students across various schools will have the opportunity to participate in immersive experiences that blend education with industry exposure, setting the stage for a new generation of innovators and leaders in sportscar racing.
