Iowa STEM Teacher Award Program

Over the next 10 years, the number of STEM-related jobs will increase by 16 percent. It is crucial to Iowa’s economic growth to fill these roles with qualified candidates and it all starts with inspiring students to pursue STEM fields.

The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council and Kemin Industries joined together to honor teachers who are inspiring Iowa’s students to develop a passion for STEM subjects. This award is for teachers who are making a significant difference in the lives of students across the state by providing excellent curriculum, encouraging lifelong learning and inspiring a passion for STEM beyond the classroom and into the future.

Formerly known as The STEM Education Award for Inspired Teaching, this award will honor one teacher from each of the six STEM regions for their contribution and dedication to STEM education in Iowa. Each awardee receives $1,500, as well as another $1,500 for their classroom.

This award is sponsored by Kemin Industries, a global molecular science company that develops and manufactures more than 500 specialty ingredients that deliver important nutrition and health benefits through products consumed by people and animals. Founded and headquartered in Des Moines in 1961, Kemin understands the importance of STEM education, especially in the state of Iowa.

2023 Awardees

2022 Awardees

2021 Awardees

2020 Awardees

2019 Awardees

2018 Awardees

2017 Awardees

2016 Awardees

2015 Awardees