For years, San Diego-based Qualcomm has stood as a steadfast partner in advancing the USS Midway Museum’s mission to inspire and educate future generations. As a global leader in wireless technology and innovation, Qualcomm’s commitment to STEM education aligns seamlessly with Midway’s dedication to bringing history, science and discovery to life for students of all ages.
From being the charter corporate partner enabling Midway to launch its virtual field trip programs during the COVID pandemic, to its ongoing annual support of the museum’s education programming, Qualcomm’s impact on student education has helped create a legacy of excellence.
More than 27,000 students in 1,000 classrooms via more than 600 live broadcasts across all 50 states and two Canadian provinces have experienced Midway’s virtual STEM field trips. These students are part of an annual cohort of more than 40,000 students and 1 million visitors who are engaged and inspired, as well as educated, through Midway exhibits, events and experiences supported by Qualcomm’s partnership.
Qualcomm sponsors Midway’s damage control shipboard engineering program, created with the San Diego Unified School District’s College, Career and Technical Education department, aligns with Next Generation Science Standards. In this program, students are inspired to apply critical thinking concepts to real-world scenarios Midway sailors were also trained to manage.
The popular Math-on-the-Midway student tour app is another Qualcomm-supported education initiative, a tool that can be used in both synchronous and asynchronous learning. At locations throughout the ship, including the flight deck, fo’c’sle, galley and berthing, students are required to solve a math problem that specifically relates to the area they’re visiting.
“The scale and scope of Qualcomm’s collaboration can’t be understated,” said Steve Miller, Midway’s director of strategic partnerships and member development. “It’s had such an incredibly positive impact on thousands of students studying STEM all over the country and particularly here in San Diego.”
“More than 40,000 students and 1 million visitors are engaged and inspired, as well as educated, through Midway exhibits, events and experiences supported by Qualcomm’s partnership.”
Qualcomm’s partnership has been instrumental in expanding access to these programs, particularly for underserved schools across the San Diego region through support of Midway’s No Child Left Ashore scholarship fund. By helping to remove financial barriers, Qualcomm ensures that more students can step aboard Midway and engage directly with interactive exhibits, STEM-based workshops and guided learning opportunities led by passionate educators and volunteers.
“At Qualcomm, we understand the importance of hands-on STEM experiences for all students,” says Natalie Taitano, Qualcomm senior manager, corporate responsibility and government affairs. “The magic of the Midway as a museum allows students to explore the ship and gain the skills and knowledge needed to become future technology leaders at companies like Qualcomm.”
The impact of Qualcomm’s support is both immediate and lasting. Each student who walks off the ship, literally or virtually, carries with them a deeper understanding of innovation, resilience and the importance of exploration. For many, a visit to the Midway becomes a pivotal moment, sparking an interest in science, technology, engineering or history that shapes their future path.
As Midway continues to expand its educational reach, partnerships like the one with Qualcomm remain essential. Their shared commitment ensures that the stories of those who served, and the lessons they represent, continue to educate and inspire generations to come.
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