What Is STEM²D?

STEM²D is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, mathematics, manufacturing, and design:

  • Science: Observing, studying, and experimenting to better understand the natural world and how it works.

  • Technology: Putting science and other knowledge to practical use to solve problems, invent useful tools, envision new possibilities, and establish meaningful connections between people and the world that surrounds them.

  • Engineering: Applying science and math principles to design and develop products, structures, machines, tools, or systems that improve everyday life.

  • Mathematics: Using a quantitative framework (numbers, quantities, shapes, abstract principles, and problem solving) to describe the world.

  • Manufacturing: Creating something from raw materials by hand or by machinery.

  • Design: Creating, constructing, or inventing an object, plan, product, or system; it is also a human-centered mindset and collaborative approach that results in better experiences by uncovering unmet needs and championing meaningful relationships through user-friendly products, environments, and systems.

Who Is STEM²D?

Johnson & Johnson seeks to cultivate interest in STEM²D at an early age and help girls and young people in marginalized populations continue to grow and develop in these areas, preparing and positioning them to pursue higher education and careers in STEM²D. With this foundation, they are primed to make valuable contributions to their communities, companies, and the world in the decades ahead.

In 2015, Johnson & Johnson launched WiSTEM²D: Winning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Manufacturing, and Design. Led by a network of volunteers from across Johnson & Johnson and its local operating companies, this ambitious initiative involves:

  • Youth programs: Sparking enchantment with STEM²D subjects in young people through creative problem-solving and play. That’s what this website was designed for.

  • University programs: Inspiring career paths, by partnering with select academic institutions to develop high-impact strategies for recruiting, retaining, and engaging leaders.

  • Professional programs: Tapping into the power of diversity through reimagined recruitment and retention of the world’s best technical female talent.

To advance student outreach, Johnson & Johnson partnered with leading nonprofit organizations FHI 360, JA Worldwide, and Smithsonian Science Education Center to develop the youth STEM²D resources and website. This site contains STEM²D activities that can be completed at home, in a classroom, or in other small and large groups.

Through this partnership, Johnson & Johnson has reached 14 million young people since 2015!

FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. FHI 360 programs combine evidence with on-the-ground experience to deliver maximum efficiency and impact. FHI 360’s impact is amplified through the synergy of partnerships. The “360” in our name symbolizes our inclusive approach to sustainable success, attained only when we partner with community-based organizations, K–12 and higher education institutions, the private sector, and the communities we serve. FHI 360 serves more than 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories. FHI 360’s National Institute for Work and Learning (NIWL) partnered with Johnson & Johnson on this initiative.

JA Worldwide As one of the world’s largest youth-serving NGOs, JA Worldwide prepares young people for employment and entrepreneurship. Through the delivery of hands-on, blended learning in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, we empower young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work skills, manage their earnings, and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their communities. Each year, our network of over 500,000 volunteers and teachers serves more than 17 million students in over 100 countries.

The Smithsonian Science Education Center is transforming K-12 Education through Science™ in collaboration with communities across the globe. Its portfolio of hands-on inquiry-based STEM²D curriculum, digital assets, and professional learning opportunities for educators has captured national and international attention. It serves millions of students and teachers each year—regardless of gender, geography, race, native language, ability, or socio-economic status—to ensure a scientifically literate and sustainable planet.