3M, Mano Amiga encourage Filipino students to pursue careers in STEM 

As the world continues to rapidly shift toward the fourth industrial revolution, it is more important than ever that Filipino students are equipped with the necessary tools and skills to help them succeed in the future. 

For 3M Philippines and Mano Amiga, this means opening opportunities and providing access to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for Filipino students. The global leader in science-based solutions partnered with the non-profit organization for holistic and accessible education to host Full STEM Ahead: A Virtual Summit and Career Mentorship Talk.

The virtual summit, held last May, gathered over 200 participants from across the country, who listened and learned from experienced STEM professionals.

The panel discussion featured Numberbender founder Dr. Peter Esperanza, licensed civil engineer Dr. Marla Redillas, Jun Barnes, Health Care Professional Services, 3M Philippines, and Iris Alonso of ARK, who all gave tips on how students can carefully choose and pursue their STEM careers. 

The speakers gave insights and advice based on their own experiences, and encouraged the students to choose a course that they are truly interested in, and to not put too much pressure on themselves. Speakers made sure to emphasize the importance of setting personal goals, and establishing a support system they can rely on. 

The speakers also helped the students understand that their STEM journey is not without setbacks, and that the path they take isn’t set in stone.

“Whatever path you find yourself on, put your heart and soul into it—you won’t regret it,” said 3M Professional Service and microbiologist Jun Barnes, who ended up on another path than he had planned. “You might not end up in the field you had initially chosen, but do your best all the same, and prepare yourself. That is what’s so great about this virtual summit hosted by 3M and Mano Amiga—young students are able to better equip themselves for their future, and us speakers are able to help inspire their journey.”

The panel discussion was followed by the career mentoring session, where the participants had the chance to have in-depth and interactive discussions with reputable STEM professionals. The lineup of esteemed guest mentors included 3M professional engineers Melody Tria, Patricia Dizon, and Jonathan Borromeo.