From STEM to Sustainability: Pioneering Pathways with STEM NOLA and The HOPE Program

Top Stories From STEM to Sustainability: STEM NOLA and The HOPE Program Lead the Way The organizations create opportunities for the next generation to explore pathways in STEM while opening doors for future success.
Branson Brooks, for NBA.com
April 17, 2026 7:29 PM

STEM NOLA was founded in 2013 by Dr. Calvin Mackie after being inspired by his son. At a time when access to science, technology, engineering and math education is more critical than ever, STEM NOLA and The HOPE Program continue to distinguish themselves as national leaders in providing hands-on opportunities for the youth.

Founder of STEM NOLA, Dr. Calvin Mackie, believes that although technology has reached unprecedented heights, understanding why and how things work is essential at a young age. “A lot of things we still do for STEM NOLA, which is hands-on, are still fundamental things that kids need to know,” said Mackie.

As for the HOPE Program, Chief Development Officer Karen Edelman, says their teachings are designed to benefit not only participants, but their communities as well. “Through hands-on projects—installing reflective rooftop coatings through NYC CoolRoofs, building rain gardens, and maintaining green infrastructure—participants don’t just learn about sustainability, they actively improve the environmental conditions of their own neighborhoods,” Edelman said.

Engage, Inspire and Expose Kids engage with hands-on activities that are not only fun but educational at STEM FEST. STEM NOLA expands access for youth through its many events, highlighted by the annual STEM Fest, where more than 60 hands-on interactive stations introduce students to STEM concepts they may not have previously experienced.

“When they come to STEMNOLA, it’s abundance. If you want two motors, get two motors. You want eight wheels, get eight wheels. You want to operate that robot? Operate that robot,” Mackie exclaimed. “We are trying to remove the shackles of boundaries from their minds so they can have the freedom to innovate and create.”

The organization also hosts monthly STEM Saturdays, allowing students to participate in various experiments — including building race cars, exploring mechanical heart prototypes and more — while learning how everyday technology works. Each session typically engages between 300 and 500 participants.

The HOPE Program’s HOPEworks initiative takes a more career-focused approach, providing participants with foundational training and professional skills that support long-term success, including communication, financial literacy, workplace readiness and resilience.

From STEM to Sustainability Throughout Earth Month, both organizations use the opportunity to spotlight environmental and technological issues affecting underinvested communities. Edelman noted that allowing adolescents to contribute to the betterment of their communities firsthand can help set them on a stronger trajectory to continue that work in the future.

“Young people from historically underinvested communities deserve to be at the forefront of this work—not as an afterthought, but as the skilled workforce building our sustainable future,” said Edelman. “Highlighting this work during Earth Month affirms that environmental justice and economic opportunity are inseparable, and that investing in young people is one of the most powerful climate actions we can take.”

STEM NOLA uses the month to teach its fellows about wetlands and the importance of water management, particularly in the Bayou region, which has faced significant challenges from storms like Hurricane Katrina.

Opening Doors to Lasting Impact The HOPE program celebrated its 40 year anniversary in 2025. As both STEM NOLA and HOPE have been established for more than a decade, their models have proven effective in creating long-term impact. However, partnering with the NBA Foundation has provided both organizations with the opportunity to expand their work and create even more opportunities for those who need them.

HOPE can now serve 75 young adults through the program, providing each participant with comprehensive wraparound supports, job placement assistance and the career advancement resources they need to thrive long after graduation.

“Beyond these numbers, the partnership helps us deepen the quality of what we offer: expanding advanced certification tracks, strengthening employer partnerships that lead to living-wage placements, and enhancing the alumni support that helps graduates advance in their careers over time,” emphasized Edelman.

Opening doors for young adults who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to walk through them can shape futures — and that impact is ultimately priceless.

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