The Salmon Camp Research Team (SCRT) was launched in 1995 by OMSI to address the critical need to diversify America’s Information Technology (IT) workforce and inspire more American Indian and Alaskan Native (AI/AN) youth to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and IT careers. Since then, over 500 AI/AN youth from six states in the Pacific Northwest have participated in on-the-ground field research alongside environmental science professionals using the latest field equipment and technology and the latest data collection, analysis, and interpretation software. Evaluation demonstrates that by incorporating research-based, hands-on learning strategies and best practices from research on culturally responsive education, SCRT leads participants to experience greater confidence with science and increased interest in science-based careers.

The program builds on OMSI’s 12-years of experience delivering the SCRT program and 50-year history with outdoor science and IT education. The new partnership with NAYA Family Center, a not-for-profit community organization annually serving over 2,000 AI/AN youth and their families from over 300 tribal backgrounds, will facilitate stronger connections to the AI/AN community. Additional project partners, including Intel Oregon, the National Park Service, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, will continue to provide content and IT expertise, internship opportunities, career exposure, and field-research experiences.