In 1995, Matthew Weinberg (TPR '79, '83) founded Building Science Technology Education Partnerships (Building STEPS), a program that exposes bright, underserved high school students to technology- and science-oriented professions. The Baltimore-based nonprofit organization has more than 153 alumni, and approximately 94 percent have gone on to college.
You are CEO of The Weinberg Group, a renowned international scientific and regulatory consulting firm. How did that give you the impetus for you to start Building STEPS?
"I looked around at my [consulting firm's] staff one day and realized we tended to come from one kind of background. I thought that as a consulting firm, it made sense to be more diverse, rather than less."
When working with underprivileged students not familiar with science or technology, what's it like when you've helped flip a switch for them?
"It's a neat feeling because you know they're on track to fulfill their capabilities. The main thing is showing the types of careers that are out there. Where these kids come from, they don't really know about computer graphics or laboratory technicians or pharmacokinetics. They don't know what statistical modeling means. But this program helps them understand and learn what they need to do to survive in the professional world."
Can you envision this program being successful in other inner cities?
"Yes, we have a business model that works."
What's the essential ingredient to bridge potential with fulfillment?
"It doesn't matter if you're rich or poor. You've got to be able to think."
—CHRIS A. WEBER
