Pioneering STEM Education for a Future of Innovators

Jay Jessen, Director of the Marburger STEM Center, Lawrence Technological University (LTU)

In the ever-evolving world of STEM education, Jay Jessen stands out as a symbol of leadership and transformation.

As the Director of the Marburger STEM Center at Lawrence Technological University (LTU), he has shaped the futures of thousands of students and emerged as a thought leader in the field. His career, driven by a passion for hands-on learning and the belief that STEM is for everyone, reflects the power of inclusive, community-driven educational initiatives.

From an early age, Jessen’s introduction to STEM was far from conventional. While many of his peers received video games or popular trading cards, he asked for microscopes, chemistry kits, and other STEM related toys. He was encouraged to go outside and explore, to build, and be creative. This early encouragement from his parents sparked a lifelong passion for discovery.

“I was lucky to have people around me who fostered my curiosity,” he reflects. “I never had to ask permission to pursue what interested me. That has shaped the way I approach education today, always with the mindset that every student deserves the same kind of explorative nurturing environment.”

Jessen’s professional journey did not follow a straight path. He holds two STEM degrees—a bachelor’s in Geography (Earth Science) and a master’s in Education Learning Design and Technology with a focus on curriculum design and instruction. Early in his career, he held various roles in higher education, including admissions, financial aid, instruction, and academic advising. However, his heart remained with K–12 students, especially when it came to inspiring them to explore STEM careers.

“I wanted to do more for our youth. It is important for these future innovators to be excited about STEM in ways that are practical, engaging, and meaningful, not just theoretical.”, he says. That desire led him to the Marburger STEM Center, where he now shapes STEM experiences for students across Michigan and beyond.

Fostering Inclusion and Breaking Barriers

At the core of Jessen’s approach is a simple but powerful principle: STEM is for everyone. He understands that many students come from backgrounds with limited access to STEM education and career opportunities, and he is committed to removing those barriers.

Drawing from personal experience, he shares, “There were times when people told me, ‘This career isn’t for you,’ or ‘Maybe this path isn’t a good fit.’ But instead of focusing on the obstacles, I was fortunate to have mentors who encouraged me to push through. Not every student gets that same level of support.”

This drive to create an inclusive and supportive environment is reflected in the programs he leads at the Marburger STEM Center. His team works diligently to ensure that every participant, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to explore STEM in a low-pressure, high-reward setting.

“I wanted to do more for our youth. It is important for these future innovators to be excited about STEM in ways that are practical, engaging, and meaningful, not just theoretical”

“We want students to feel that failure is okay,” he explains. “In our programs, we emphasize growth, development, and learning from mistakes. The goal isn’t just to succeed, but to show that success is not a straight line and that everyone has a place in the STEM world.”

Hands-on initiatives like the STEM Scholars Visits, High School Summer Programs, Summer STEM Series (S3) and Mobile RPM Studio expose students to real-world STEM applications, from motorsports simulation, drone programming, engineering design challenges, environmental science, to design principles and beyond. These experiences are not just about learning concepts—they are about helping students see that STEM careers can be exciting, multifaceted, and attainable.

Jessen’s commitment to inclusion also extends to supporting educators. “When we support teachers and provide them with additional tools they can use to succeed in the classroom, we ensure our programs have a lasting impact,” he says. The Marburger STEM Center trains hundreds of educators each year, equipping them with strategies to bring STEM into their classrooms and make it more accessible to a wider range of students.

A Vision for Collaboration and Expansion

Under Jessen’s leadership, the Marburger STEM Center has grown rapidly. Since 2023, it has served over 9,000 participants and trained more than 400 educators. Its reach now extends beyond Michigan, drawing interest from neighboring states and even internationally. This growth is largely due to Jessen’s focus on building strong, cross-sector partnerships.

“I believe in the power of community,” he says. “One of the biggest challenges in STEM education is that so many efforts happen in isolation. What we need is a better network of STEM educators and directors who are willing to collaborate, share resources, and support each other. That’s how we move forward.”

One of the center’s standout initiatives is its partnership with an industry leader in motorsports simulation. Together, they have developed a curriculum that connects engineering principles with simulation technology, offering students immersive experiences in motorsports engineering. “It’s thrilling to see students from all backgrounds coming together to explore how motorsports, engineering, and simulation intersect in ways they never imagined,” Jessen says. With high-end simulation rigs and a growing curriculum, this initiative is set to become a key component of the center’s offerings.

Shaping the Future of STEM Education

Jessen’s leadership style is rooted in humility, hands-on engagement, and a deep commitment to student success. Whether he’s designing programs or picking up trash alongside his team, he leads by example. His belief in human-centered leadership guides every aspect of his work.

“I believe in leading by example. If I expect my team to do something, I’m right there with them. It’s about creating a culture of shared responsibility, where everyone contributes to the experience,” he says.

Looking to the future, Jessen is optimistic. With more students discovering the excitement of hands-on STEM learning and growing collaboration among educators and institutions, the outlook is promising. As he continues to lead the Marburger STEM Center, his impact is sure to resonate for generations.

“When a student lights up about STEM, it’s a truly unforgettable moment. That’s why I do what I do,” he says. “And it’s proof I’m in the right place.”

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