KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills are essential for tackling challenges like advancing renewable energy, improving infrastructure and combating climate change. Burns & McDonnell is committing $1.5 million in grants over the next three years to support Project Lead The Way (PLTW), helping connect students nationwide with high-demand, fast-growing career opportunities.

From 2022 to 2024, the Burns & McDonnell Foundation invested $1.5 million in PLTW grants, funding more than 90 programs reaching over 20,000 students in PreK-12 classrooms across the country. With this renewed commitment, PLTW has recognized the firm as a Transformative Partner, its highest level of partnership distinction. 

“Supporting students interested in STEM is about investing in the future,” says Leslie Duke, chair and CEO at Burns & McDonnell. “We know the challenges ahead require innovative minds and strong solutions. It is our responsibility to help inspire and prepare the next generation to lead the way.”

PLTW offers engaging programs for students in pre-K through high school, giving them the tools and confidence to solve real-world problems and explore STEM-focused programs in engineering, computer science and biomedical science pathways. PLTW also provides training and resources to educators as they engage students in real-world learning through the PLTW curriculum, transforming the learning experience for millions of students.

PLTW and Burns & McDonnell share a commitment to expanding access to STEM learning. For example, in 2022, a $260,000 grant enabled Cicero District 99 to grow STEAM education across its elementary schools. Similarly, a $40,000 investment in Seminole County Public Schools in Sanford, Florida, helped develop specialized programs like the Academy of Engineering at Lyman High School.

“With continued investments and dedicated partnerships like the one between PLTW and Burns & McDonnell, we are providing students with high-quality STEM education while preparing them with skills and knowledge for future careers,” says Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW president and CEO. “Burns & McDonnell understands this critical need to invest in students today, igniting their curiosity to become the innovators of tomorrow.”

Employment in STEM fields is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations are projected to grow by 10.4% between 2023 to 2033, far outpacing the 3.6% growth rate for non-STEM jobs. PLTW data shows students who participate in PLTW programs are more likely to graduate from high school, enroll in college and pursue STEM majors. These students often develop a stronger interest in STEM careers after completing a PLTW course, helping encourage the next generation of innovators.

“Our Burns & McDonnell Foundation is committed to supporting schools because providing students with STEM skills not only empowers them but also strengthens our communities,” says Julee Koncak, community relations director at Burns & McDonnell. “Investing in education is an investment in a brighter future for all of us.”

Established in 1988 by the firm’s employee-owners, the Burns & McDonnell Foundation focuses much of its funding on inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. In 2024 alone, employee-owners contributed over $11 million to communities nationwide. This included $1.1 million for science centers and museums, $250,000 in STEM grants for schools, and continued support for the firm’s ongoing partnership with PLTW.

Burns & McDonnell supports STEM education through a variety of other initiatives, including high school job shadow opportunities, the Future U STEM camp, Your World Empowered program, an Educators Summit, and access to various activities and tools to keep kids excited and engaged in STEM.

About Burns & McDonnell

Working from more than 75 offices around the world, Burns & McDonnell designs and builds critical infrastructure. Our family of companies — driven by engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists — delivers projects grounded in safety and a desire to make a difference as we make our clients successful. Founded in 1898, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned. Learn more.

About PLTW

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) equips PreK-12 students for a STEM-driven world with teacher-empowered curriculum in computer science, engineering, biomedical science, and more. For over 25 years, PLTW’s curriculum coupled with its best-in-class professional development has supported teachers in creating an environment to make every student STEM successful. As a national nonprofit organization, PLTW is proud to reach 2.5 million students in elementary, middle, and high schools in all 50 states. With over 100,000 trained teachers nationwide, PLTW brings relevant, hands-on learning to classrooms across the country. For more information on Project Lead The Way, visit pltw.org.