TranSTEM Academy Feasibility Assessment

Mass Economics worked with the Boston MBTA to conduct a feasibility assessment for a potential career and technical education partnership with a local high school and community college. Mass Economics identified a growing demand for STEM workers both within the MBTA and Massachusetts’ transportation sector. The team also determined that STEM transportation careers provide in-demand, middle-wage jobs – offering wages far higher than the Massachusetts average for jobs requiring less than a BA. Mass Economics researched new career and technical education models and their contribution to improved student outcomes, such as higher graduation and college attendance rates. Ultimately, the team recommended the MBTA support a new TranSTEM Academy to prepare Boston public school students for in-demand STEM careers in transportation and provide students with the academic and technical skills required to launch successful careers. To support implementation, the team offered case studies of successful CTE schools as well as detailed recommendations for planning and launching the new academy.