Overview

Building Science Technology and Education Partnerships Inc. t/a Building STEPS is a
non -profit organization that exposes bright, underserved high school students to science and technology-based careers, and helps them excel in these fields where minorities are overwhelmingly underrepresented.

Building STEPS was founded in 1995 by Matthew Weinberg, CEO of The Weinberg Group. Initially in Washington D.C., Building STEPS was relocated to Baltimore in September 1999. Baltimore, as a major metropolitan city, offers a broad breadth of science and technology-based corporate and institutional partners.

The multi-year program, supplementing each student’s classroom learning, includes seminars, a summer internship, college counseling and alumni services. More than 90% of Building STEPS students have advanced to college, almost all of whom are the first to do so in their family.

Beginning in September, the juniors participate in nine monthly seminars. Each seminar incorporates a site visit with guest lecturers and hands-on activities, offering exposure to technology and science-based careers as well as education about life skills necessary to succeed in these demanding professional careers.

Rising seniors are placed in paid summer internships with companies and institutions that rely on technology and science, enabling them to explore specific professional opportunities and learn about workplace dynamics and expectations. This experience is structured to enhance each student’s personal and professional development.

Through a series of intensive workshops, the seniors receive assistance with the college application process, including identifying colleges, writing an essay, and completing and packaging their applications. Students are guided through the scholarship and financial aid processes.

Writing letters of recommendation, providing connections to educational and professional resources, and hosting alumni events enables Building STEPS to remain the safety net for its graduates, who continue their participation through mentoring the underclassmen.