Business Details
11 Years
experience
Empowering Underserved Youth Through STEM Education
Founded in 2015, OpenWise Learning (OWL) is a youth development organization dedicated to empowering marginalized children through STEM education with a focus on technology, social justice, and ecological justice. Our programs guide scholars from middle school through high school, providing educational and professional opportunities via apprenticeships, mentorships, and international collaborations. With over 30 years of combined leadership experience in education, technology, and science, our team is committed to transforming underserved youth into STEM-fluent global leaders.We emphasize hands-on learning, community service, and global citizenship to equip students with college and career-ready skills while fostering responsibility to their communities and the planet. Our partnerships with OpenWise and other organizations enable us to deliver real-world STEM experiences, ensuring our scholars gain the tools to address 21st-century challenges. Transparency, ethical practices, and a focus on equity underpin our operations as we strive to create accessible pathways to STEM careers for all children.
Services
STEM Immersive
Leadership Corps
Mentorship Programs
Apprenticeships
Global Collaboration
Youth Development
Social Justice Education
Ecological Awareness
Career Readiness
Volunteer Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We specialize in STEM education for marginalized youth with a focus on social and ecological justice.
- Our programs combine mentorship, apprenticeships, and international collaboration for real-world impact.
- Leadership team has 30+ years of combined experience in education, technology, and sustainable development.
- We provide continuous support from middle school through high school career pathways.
- Our curriculum integrates community service with cutting-edge technology and scientific principles.
Services
STEM Immersive
Our entry-level program introduces middle school students to core STEM concepts through hands-on technology projects and ecological studies. Scholars develop critical thinking skills while exploring science careers through structured curriculum and collaborative learning. The 12-week program establishes foundational knowledge for advanced STEM Leadership Corps participation.
Leadership Corps
This high school program builds on STEM fundamentals with leadership development, robotics training, and community service projects. Participants gain advanced technical skills while mentoring younger scholars and implementing sustainability initiatives. The two-year curriculum prepares students for professional apprenticeships and college-level coursework.
Mentorship Programs
Professional STEM mentors provide personalized guidance through weekly sessions focusing on academic support, career planning, and personal development. Mentors include scientists, engineers, and educators who share expertise while helping scholars navigate educational challenges and opportunities.
Apprenticeships
High school seniors participate in paid apprenticeships with partner organizations, gaining real-world STEM experience in technology firms, research institutions, and environmental agencies. The 6-12 month placements include professional training, project management responsibilities, and career networking opportunities.
Global Collaboration
Scholars collaborate with youth worldwide on joint STEM projects addressing climate change, public health, and technological equity. Virtual exchanges and international conferences foster cross-cultural understanding while developing solutions to shared global challenges through scientific innovation.
People
Dr. Danielah Ashtier
Operations Director
Physician with 8 years of obstetrics/gynecology experience, specializing in health education for underserved communities. Holds MD from New York Medical College and biology honors degree from University of Miami.
Abigail Hazelwood
Education Director
15+ years teaching underserved populations, Fulbright Sustainable Development exchange participant. Certified K-12 TESOL and Grades 1-8 elementary educator with MS in Education from University of Maryland.
Roger Nathanial Ashtier
Executive Director
21-year IT leader with dual degrees in Computer Science and Business Administration from Johns Hopkins. MPA in Sustainable Development from Columbia University, specializing in technology solutions engineering.
Questions
What age groups does OpenWise Learning serve?
We serve middle school through high school students, providing continuous support from early adolescence into young adulthood.
How does OWL incorporate social justice into STEM education?
Our curriculum integrates equity-focused projects addressing environmental justice, community health, and technology access for underserved populations.
Are there volunteer opportunities available?
Yes, we welcome STEM professionals, educators, and business experts to apply as mentors or program volunteers through our website.
What outcomes do participants achieve after completing OWL programs?
Scholars gain college readiness, professional STEM experience, and leadership skills to address global challenges through technology and science.
How is OpenWise Learning funded?
We rely on donations, grants, and partnerships to sustain our programs, with annual fundraising campaigns supporting equipment, mentorship, and global initiatives.
