Through our youth-focused programs, the Juneau Economic Development Council (JEDC) aims to increase interest and competencies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields, building the next generation of Alaskan innovators and educators right here at home.
Increasing Young Alaskans' Interest and Competencies in STEM
We approach this goal through three main pathways:
1. Offering STEM enrichment activities to students.
2. Facilitating professional development of teachers.
3. Participating in advocacy and outreach to build public awareness and support for STEM Education.
Our work is guided by a commitment to hands-on, engaged learning that links students to real world opportunities and challenges in an environment of high expectations and discovery. We work with teachers and students, government and non-government organizations, not-for-profits, and increasingly with Alaska business and industry to address the current and future STEM needs of the state. We invite you to join us in this important work!
Our Programs
Alaska's Robotics Program
A Worldwide 501(c)(3) Dedicated to STEM and FUN!FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is the world’s leading youth robotics community, delivering youth robotics competitions that inspire innovation, build confidence, and prepare young people for life.
JEDC is proud to be the Program Delivery Organization for FIRST® in Alaska, the statewide robotics program for kids grades K-12 and ages 5-18. With fundraising assistance from the Alaska Development Corporation, we deliver programs and activities to 1,500+ students across 30+ Alaskan communities through 25+ unique events supported by more than 500 volunteers each year. This includes competitions for all age levels, including festivals for FIRST® LEGO League (FLL) Explore (K-4) and tournaments for FLL Challenge (grades 4-8) and FIRST® Tech Challenge (grades 7-12).
Teams of students, led by at least one coach or mentor, are presented with an annual challenge. They meet regularly for "practice" to prepare their solution to the challenge and then compete against other teams through a series of events, league meets, and tournaments around the state, culminating in state championship tournaments with the excitement of a sporting event.
The FIRST® in Alaska program is always looking for more volunteers, sponsors, and donors!
Juneau STEM Summer Camps
A Cornstone of Summer Learning and Childcare Activities in Alaska's Capital City!Since 2009, JEDC has delivered 100+ STEM-focused summer camps in Juneau with strong focus on youth safety, quality, and care. Our dedicated camp staff provide an exciting and enriching environment where K-12 students can explore STEM through hands-on projects and challenges. Designed to spark curiosity and build confidence, our camps help students develop critical thinking, problem solving, and technical skills while nurturing creativity and collaboration. Most camps are LEGO robotics-based and augmented by supporting activities, including 3D Design & Print Camps, a Technical Trades Camp with local unions, private employers, and UAS, and an Entrepreneurship Camp with the Chamber of Commerce.
Our campers range from age five to eighteen and grades 1-12, representing a mix of public, private, and homeschool students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. All camps are facilitated by trained instructors and counselors, high-school and college interns, and volunteers with diverse backgrounds, including many FIRST® Robotics Alumni. High staff-to-camper ratios and regularly updated safety protocols further ensure every camp provides a safe, supportive, and enriching experience.
With a firm belief that our camps should not be limited by families' economic status, all camps are run on a “Pay-As-You-Can” model.
Join the growing list of businesses and organization who support STEM education in Alaska!
THANK YOU to our 2026 Camp Sponsors!
Funding Partners ($10,000+)
Camp Series Title Sponsors ($2,500)
Individual Camp Title Sponsors ($1,000)
STEM Leaders ($500)
STEM Motivators ($250)
Funding Partner Spotlight
The Alaska Development Corporation (ADC) is a statewide organization that promotes sound and sustainable economic growth and diversification throughout Alaska. Affiliated with the Juneau Economic Development Council, the ADC provides information, education, and programs of assistance for businesses, agencies, students and the public.
As a 501(c)(3) charity, ADC accepts donations from individuals and organizations on behalf of the programs run by JEDC STEM, including the statewide FIRST® in Alaska Robotics Program and STEM Summer Camps in Juneau! Contributions to ADC are tax-deductible.
We appreciate any and all support! Those wishing to support JEDC STEM through either a sponsorship -or- donation can click the link on the right to be directed to the ADC Homepage
