Dewey to Participate in Binghamton University Research & Workforce Program

Windsor engineering teacher Jason Dewey will participate in the 2026 Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) program at Binghamton University, a Science Foundation-supported initiative that immerses educators in advanced microelectronics research and workforce development experiences.

The program connects middle and high school STEM teachers with university researchers, engineers and regional industry leaders to help strengthen classroom instruction and prepare students for high-demand technical careers.
“The program is intended for secondary STEM teachers to give them connection to the colleges and local businesses to better prepare students for the need for a skilled technical STEM workforce,” Dewey said.
 
“For me I see this as an opportunity to make connections to open more opportunities and experiences for students.”

The RET program provides hands-on research opportunities in electronics packaging, thermal management, printed electronics and advanced manufacturing technologies. Participants also collaborate with faculty researchers and visit industry partners including BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin to better understand the demands of the STEM workforce.

Dewey emphasized that the experience aligns closely with the work at Windsor to prepare students for future careers and post-secondary success.

“At Windsor we do a lot of work to make sure our students are future-ready,” he said. “I am hoping this opens the door for more empowering education experiences for students. It is also good to see the rigor at college and workforce level to align what we are teaching to job demands and opportunities.”

One of Dewey’s goals following the summer research experience is to expand real-world STEM exposure for students through partnerships and field experiences.

“My hope is that we can set up field trips for students to places like BU’s engineering program, BAE and Lockheed Martin,” Dewey said. “There are also funds coming back to the school to help support curriculum developed over the summer.”

Dewey added that exposing students to rigorous STEM experiences can help prepare them for a rapidly evolving workforce.

“If we have students strive for the stars but only make it to the moon, they will still have the skills needed for the in-demand STEM workforce that supports our economy,” he said.