During this year’s I/ITSEC 2025 conference, we had the opportunity to examine not only the latest defense technologies, but also the American approach to educating youth in fields crucial to national security. We paid particular attention to programs supporting the development of STEM competencies and scholarship systems for students interested in careers in the defense sector.
What is STEM Education?
STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. In educational practice, it means an interdisciplinary approach to teaching that combines these four areas, preparing students for practical applications and developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In the USA, STEM education is a broad ecosystem of initiatives – from programs for the youngest students, through technical competitions for high school students, to advanced scholarship programs at universities. This is a strategic approach to building a cadre of specialists necessary to maintain technological superiority in key sectors, including defense.
The I/ITSEC Scholarship Program
One of the key elements of the conference is the scholarship program supporting dozens of students from universities across the United States, with a budget reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Janet Spruill, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, informed us that the program currently encompasses five different scholarship categories, including the newly introduced NTSA RADM James A. Robb Scholarship Program, honoring the memory of the admiral who actively promoted careers in modeling, simulation, and training.
The remaining scholarships are: Leonard P. Gollobin Postgraduate Scholarship, RADM Fred Lewis Postgraduate Scholarship, Barbara McDaniel Undergraduate Scholarship, and NTSA CMSP (Certified Modeling and Simulation Professional) Scholarship for specialists developing competencies in certified modeling and simulation.
Application Process and Selection
Recruitment begins at the start of the conference year. Universities receive information about available scholarships through a broad distribution network – contact points at universities, departments, financial aid offices, LinkedIn, and the program alumni network.
In July, the Scholarship Committee, which includes representatives from universities, industry, and government administration, meets in person to finalize recommendations. Winners learn about their scholarship awards in early August and begin preparations for participation in the week-long conference.
An Experience Beyond Financial Support
Scholarship recipients participate in a full, immersive conference experience. The week begins on Sunday with packing conference materials, followed by orientation and participation in the most important events: opening ceremonies, career fairs, and a group lunch. A special highlight of the program is the Scholarship Alumni Reception, during which senior military leadership speaks directly with students, encouraging them to continue their research and take on challenges facing the nation.
Janet Spruill emphasizes the significance of the program for the I/ITSEC community, pointing to scholarship recipients as future leaders and researchers who will help maintain the country’s competitive advantage.
Conclusions for Poland
Our observations indicate a systematic US approach to building youth interest in exact sciences and technology and creating career paths in the defense sector. Extensive scholarship programs, direct contact between students and industry representatives, and long-term support for graduates constitute a model worthy of analysis in the context of the Polish education system in the field of security.