AI STEM Career Zone for Students Launched at CT Science Center, with Support from Aetna

As a critical driver in the state’s workforce development ecosystem, the Connecticut Science Center connects students to real-world STEM pathways, industry mentors, and hands-on career exploration experiences.

WIth recent financial support from Aetna, officials indicate that these efforts will be expanded to ensure young people across Connecticut gain exposure to emerging industries, in-demand careers, and the skills needed to succeed.

“This partnership represents more than sponsorship. It represents shared responsibility for Connecticut’s future,” said Matt Fleury, President & CEO of the Connecticut Science Center. “Aetna’s long-term investment allows us to expand STEM Career Connections in meaningful ways, inspire the next generation of innovators, and ensure that Connecticut remains competitive in high-growth industries like AI and healthcare. We are proud to stand alongside Aetna in building pathways that begin here in Hartford and extend across our entire state.”

One of the most exciting outcomes of the partnership, officials point out, is the new AI STEM Career Zone, which launched during the Science Center’s STEM Career Showcase this Spring at the Connecticut Science Center. This new experience for STEM Career Showcase and Pathways to STEM events is designed to introduce students to cutting-edge careers in artificial intelligence across STEM and healthcare fields, industries that are rapidly transforming how people live and work.

In addition to supporting students statewide, the partnership further strengthens Aetna’s presence in the Hartford community. As part of the collaboration, Aetna employees will receive free general admission to the Connecticut Science Center, creating new opportunities for families to explore, learn, and connect with the Science Center’s mission.

“Aetna has long been committed to Hartford and to the communities we serve,” said Katerina Guerraz, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Aetna. “By supporting the Connecticut Science Center’s STEM Career Connections initiatives, we are helping expand education pathways that connect young people to real-world learning, emerging fields like AI and healthcare, and the skills they need for future success. We are proud to invest in programs that strengthen Hartford and help build Connecticut’s next generation workforce.”

Located in downtown Hartford, the LEED Gold-certified Connecticut Science Center “inspires curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of science through hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.” Home to more than 165 interactive exhibits, the Science Center explores topics including space, earth sciences, biology, and Connecticut’s legacy of innovation, along with a year-round butterfly habitat, a giant-screen theater, and dynamic learning labs.

As a nonprofit organization, the Connecticut Science Center advances science literacy and workforce development across Connecticut and New England through engaging programs for students, families, educators, and professionals.

For more information about STEM Career Connections and upcoming STEM Career Showcase events, visit ctsciencecenter.org.