The Stevens Accessing Careers in Engineering and Science (ACES) program, founded in 2017, has recently received a $100,000 donation from Johnson & Johnson, strengthening its mission to support academically talented students pursuing careers in STEM fields. The donation will fund hands-on research opportunities and cover the participation of up to 30 students in Stevens’ Pre-College Summer Program during the summer of 2026, ensuring that more students gain the resources and guidance needed to succeed in engineering and science disciplines.
Many ACES participants face challenges that extend beyond academics, such as financial instability, lack of access to STEM resources, or limited exposure to career opportunities. By providing support, ACES works to bridge these gaps. “We highlighted the strength of our pre-college programs by demonstrating that students not only build valuable technical skills, but also develop greater confidence and resilience as they step into the STEM world,” said Edlyn Thompson-Mettle, Director of Undergraduate Outreach Programs at Stevens.
“Recognizing that both are essential for long-term success, Johnson & Johnson chose to continue supporting this mission.”
Since its founding, ACES has aimed to increase the number of academically talented students from all backgrounds who face financial hardships, allowing them to become future engineers, innovators, and leaders. The program provides scholarships, mentorship, and career-focused programs to both high school and undergraduate students. What began with partnerships at nine schools has grown to include 18 high schools across New Jersey and New York, including Brooklyn Technical High School, Hoboken High School, Science Park High School in Newark, and many more.
Pre-college ACES students have the opportunity to participate in year-round workshops and summer programs that provide a hands-on introduction to STEM disciplines. For students interested in applying to Stevens, ACES also offers individualized admissions guidance and the possibility of scholarship consideration. For those who go on to enroll at Stevens, the benefits expand significantly. Undergraduate students in the program are welcomed into the Stevens Technical Enrichment Program (STEP), which includes the Summer Bridge program, additional financial aid, alumni mentorship, and access to study abroad or paid research opportunities.
“Through scholarship, mentoring, and support, ACES provides high school and enrolled undergraduate students with the resources that they and their families may need to be successful at Stevens,” said Dr. Thompson-Mettle.
The $100,000 donation from Johnson & Johnson underscores the company’s confidence in the program’s ability to empower students. Funding will directly support scholarships for students who otherwise may not have been able to access Stevens’ pre-college offerings, opening doors to future academic and career opportunities.
Looking ahead, Thompson-Mettle notes that Stevens is currently restructuring its pre-college programs to further broaden opportunities for young learners. In addition to ACES, she oversees the Art Harper Saturday Academy and other outreach initiatives that align with Stevens’ commitment to broadening exposure in STEM education.
With continued corporate partnerships and an expanding network of high school collaborations, ACES is determined to make an even greater impact. For Thompson-Mettle and her team, the mission is to ensure that talented students, regardless of financial background, can envision themselves not only as college students, but as future scientists, engineers, and leaders in technology.
