LC-TAMIU STEM Connector Project Broadens Access with Engineering Scholarships

During a joint announcement Tuesday, Laredo College and Texas A&M International University unveiled new scholarship opportunities as part of their ongoing LC-TAMIU STEM Connector Project. This two-year federally funded initiative is designed to streamline the transfer process for STEM students and expand access to high-impact learning experiences.

Launched in 2023, the project represents a pivotal advancement in STEM education for the region.  It was initially funded through $963,000 in congressionally directed support secured by Congressman Dr. Henry Cuellar. 

Led by Principal Investigator Dr. Kenneth Tobin of TAMIU in collaboration with LC’s Director of Engineering, Design and Construction Management Technology Dr. Alfonso Hinojosa, the initiative has focused on aligning engineering curricula between LC and TAMIU, enhancing instruction in foundational computer science courses and implementing a vertically integrated academic framework to reduce time-to-degree.

A key highlight of the project is the introduction of scholarships specifically designed to support economically disadvantaged and first-generation students pursuing STEM fields aligned with NASA’s mission. Scholarship recipients will have the opportunity to engage in NASA-related research in science and engineering, participate in a High-Performance Computing (HPC) workshop and earn industry-recognized certifications.

A total of $124,000 has been allocated to fund these scholarships, with each eligible student receiving $1,000 per semester. The program aims to award at least 31 scholarships each term. Eligibility criteria are intentionally broad to maximize accessibility, with priority given to students demonstrating financial need. 

Eligibility requirements:

• Must be a current Laredo College or Dual Enrollment student in the engineering field
• Must intend to transfer to TAMIU
• Must have passed the TSI exams
• Must have a completed FAFSA application on file

Leadership from both institutions emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative for local students aspiring to pursue engineering degrees and the strengthened collaboration it fosters between LC and TAMIU.

“This initiative exemplifies the power of collaboration between two higher education institutions committed to student success,” TAMIU Interim President and Chief Financial Officer Juan Castillo said. “By bridging engineering pathways between TAMIU and LC, we are expanding students’ access to STEM education and advancing the future of our region's workforce. In partnership with LC, we are fueling innovation that begins on our campuses and connects students all the way to NASA and beyond.”

“We are proud to continue strengthening our partnership with our colleagues at TAMIU, creating a seamless academic pathway that allows engineering students to begin their journey at Laredo College and transition smoothly to TAMIU,” Laredo College President Dr. Minita Ramírez added. “Through this new scholarship initiative, we are expanding access to high-quality STEM education, empowering more students to pursue engineering careers while remaining rooted in their community and building a brighter future.”

For additional information about the project or scholarship opportunities, please contact the Laredo College Engineering, Design and Construction Management Technology Department at EDCMT@laredo.edu or call (956) 721-5224.