Phase 1 of New Research Published: S.T.E.M. – America’s Destinations Lead the Way

PGAV Destinations reveals challenges and new solutions to STEM engagement

(St. Louis, MO – October 15, 2013) – St. Louis-based planning and design firm PGAV Destinations has published its latest landmark study, “S.T.E.M.: America’s Destinations Lead the Way.” The study examines the issues and opportunities along the entire production line of STEM talent and presents a strong case for America’s destinations as catalysts for growth.

“STEM” in Destinology is an early snapshot of the firm’s study, and PGAV intends to publish phase two of the research in early 2014, expounding on the topics of elementary school, high school, college, STEM at destinations, women in STEM, science center funding, and the regional impact of destinations.

The report begins by investigating America’s educational system from kindergarten through post-college, looking for key drivers of field inspiration and cultivation to carry those interests into lifelong careers. This piece also examines international STEM talent graduation rates and career decisions.

The study then delves into a focus on women’s interest in STEM fields at an early age and how that evolves in different ways as they progress through education and key life landmarks. Women serve as one of the most talented and readily available resources for deeper engagement in STEM fields, and “S.T.E.M.” proposes theories for their lower levels of participation and ways to grow this resource.

Lastly, “S.T.E.M.” examines how America’s destinations can serve as some of the most powerful influencers for increasing interest, inspiration, and understanding in STEM fields. By leveraging a large correlation study of city data points with its decades of destination design experience, PGAV reveals trends linking prosperous cities with destination development. In addition, the study shares case studies of various types of attractions effectively incorporating    Space Shuttle Atlantis at the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex STEM education and principles.

““S.T.E.M.” connects the insights from many of the world’s most prevalent research papers on the topic to our insights with destinations,” says Diane Lochner, museum sector leader at PGAV Destinations. “It’s our intent that this will empower destination managers to cut through all of the noise and enable them to make informed, wise decisions as they leverage their attractions to address the vacuum of much-needed STEM talent.”

“S.T.E.M.” is just the latest study in an ongoing series of published research by PGAV Destinations. By visiting the company’s website, you can find additional studies regarding The New Destination Visitor, The Art of the Family Vacation, Millennials, Authenticity, Green Design, and many more. Visit the company’s Publications page to subscribe to their quarterly newsletter, Destinology, to automatically receive the latest research insights.

About PGAV Destinations

PGAV Destinations is a global leader in the planning and design of unique destinations. Now in its fifth decade, the practice has evolved to become the ideal destination-consulting partner, skilled at developing growth-oriented master plans and translating those plans into successful projects. No other firm offers such an integrated approach to destination planning.

PGAV’s key clients include industry leaders such as Delaware North Companies, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, the Biltmore Companies, Bass Pro Shops, Ameristar Casinos, Universal Studios, The Gettysburg Foundation, the Saint Louis Zoo, and many others. Recent assignments include planning and design at many of the world’s “must see” destinations, including the Grand Canyon, Biltmore Estate, NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Hearst Castle, the Georgia Aquarium, the Hoover Dam, and SeaWorld Adventure Parks.  www.PGAVDestinations.com