Science Matters

Adam Brumbaugh's first day on the job at Dynamic Aviation was not what he expected. And he never imagined he'd eventually find himself working on the company's most important restoration project: a four-engine Lockheed Constellation that happens to be the very first Air Force One.

This Black History Month, let’s shine a light on African American women who have impacted and continue to make their mark in STEM fields. The IF/THEN Collection is the largest free resource of its kind dedicated to increasing access to authentic and relatable images of women in STEM. This digital library boasts thousands of photos, videos and other assets that feature a wide variety of STEM careers. There are many Black women in STEM featured, including mechanical engineer Erika Anderson and large-carnivore ecologist Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant.

Robotics and the use of other innovative technologies can empower youth to explore and contribute to advancements in our ever-changing world while building vital skills in leadership and teamwork.

Scientifically we know that stress, especially economic stress, increases brain-aging. In the situation of dementia, it increases confusion, behavioral problems and impairs cognitive functioning. If the stress is related to basic needs people are fighting this fight without the basic resources that they need to survive.

Mary Coughter, a Ph.D. student at Virginia Commonwealth University, explains how human activity causes antibiotic resistant microorganisms in the James River and how these microbes can potentially affect life in, and along, the river.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month explore these resources that share the contributions of Latina and Hispanic people who have impacted and continue to make their mark in STEM fields.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Two summer interns talk about their experiences working with the creative teams at NASA.

Teachers on the Estuary Field Course, helps Virginia teachers bring coastal science back to their classrooms.

VPM Science Matters is a multi-media educational initiative of VPM, Central Virginia’s PBS & NPR stations. Through our “big loud voice” of Radio, Television and the Web, we strive to inspire our community to value science and understand its importance to our future.