Hyundai Motor Group is ramping up its investment in STEM education across Coastal Georgia, introducing hands-on learning experiences and scholarship programs to equip students for careers in engineering, clean energy and automotive technology.
As part of this initiative, Hyundai is partnering with the SAE Foundation to bring A World in Motion (AWIM) -- a STEM education program designed for PreK-12 students -- to the Bryan County School District. The program’s skimmer challenge, which reached nearly 800 fourth grade students, engaged participants in designing and building fan-propelled paper sailboats to explore scientific principles such as air resistance, propulsion and surface area. The curriculum also incorporated real-world applications, including Hyundai’s work in renewable energy and emissions reduction technologies.
"AWIM’s skimmer challenge has been a valuable hands-on learning experience for our fourth-graders, sparking curiosity and problem-solving skills that will serve them for years to come," said Jonathan Shearer, Ed.D., director of CTAE, Federal and Special Programs at Bryan County Schools. "We are deeply grateful to Hyundai for this investment in our students, as it not only strengthens their STEM foundation but also introduces them to real-world applications and future career pathways."
Hyundai is also expanding its Hydrogen STEM Program in partnership with H2GP Foundation. Over the past three years, the program has introduced more than 1,000 students across California, Georgia, Michigan and Alabama to hydrogen fuel cell technology and clean energy applications. In a recent event at the Bulloch County Boys & Girls Club, students built hydrogen-powered model vehicles using recycled materials before testing them on a Hyundai-branded racetrack.
To further bolster hands-on learning, Hyundai sponsored 16 teams from Bryan County to compete in the first-ever Georgia Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) as part of the Hyundai RC Program. The top-performing team will earn a spot at the H2GP World Finals in Chemnitz, Germany, in August, while the best all-girls team will compete in the Girls in STEM division.
"Our investment in hydrogen STEM programs is about inspiring students to think innovatively and see the potential of sustainable energy solutions," said Brandon Ramirez, director of corporate social responsibility at Hyundai Motor North America. "Coastal Georgia has quickly become another home for Hyundai. It is important that we invest in the local community by bringing educational opportunities to students, especially in STEM, and inspire career pathways for those interested in careers at HMGMA."
Hyundai is also strengthening its partnership with Georgia Southern University, increasing scholarship funding for students pursuing STEM degrees. This year, the company is donating $25,000, bringing its total investment in the university to $55,000 since the partnership began.
The initiative aligns with Hyundai’s growing presence in Georgia, where the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) -- the automaker’s first dedicated electric vehicle mass-production facility -- will soon begin operations. By equipping students with technical skills in engineering, renewable energy and automotive innovation, Hyundai aims to build a pipeline of future professionals to support the region’s expanding automotive sector.
