JUMP into STEM: Shaping the Future of Building Energy Efficiency

The JUMP into STEM initiative stands as a premier competition designed to inspire the next generation of building science professionals. By bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application, this program encourages undergraduate and graduate students to develop innovative solutions for complex challenges in the building sector.

The Mission of JUMP into STEM

The core objective of JUMP into STEM is to broaden the diversity of the building science workforce while fostering creativity in energy efficiency. Managed by the U.S. Department of Energys National Laboratories, the program seeks to address some of the most pressing issues in sustainable architecture, decarbonization, and smart building technology.

How the Competition Works

Students from across the United States participate in a multi-stage challenge. Participants choose from specific competition "challenges" released annually, which focus on current industry problems. Whether it is improving indoor air quality, reducing the carbon footprint of construction materials, or designing net-zero energy retrofits, teams must propose actionable, science-based solutions.

Finalists are invited to a virtual or in-person workshop where they present their concepts to experts from the building science community, including researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Beyond the competition itself, the event serves as a significant networking platform, connecting students with potential mentors and employers.

Why Participation Matters

For students, JUMP into STEM provides more than just a trophy. It offers:

• Professional Development: Exposure to cutting-edge research methodologies.
• Mentorship: Direct access to some of the brightest minds at the National Labs.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities for internships and career placements within the clean energy sector.
• Real-World Impact: The satisfaction of contributing to global efforts in climate change mitigation.

A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

A fundamental pillar of JUMP into STEM is its commitment to diversity. The program actively recruits from a wide range of institutions, including those that serve underrepresented populations in STEM. By lowering the barriers to entry and providing a collaborative environment, the program ensures that the future of building science reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.

Looking Ahead

As the global construction industry shifts toward aggressive decarbonization goals, the demand for professionals skilled in high-performance building technology will continue to soar. JUMP into STEM is not just a competition; it is a pipeline for talent and a laboratory for ideas that will define how we live, work, and interact with our environment for decades to come.

By encouraging young innovators to think critically about the built environment, JUMP into STEM is ensuring that the buildings of tomorrow are more efficient, healthier, and more resilient than ever before.