Transportation Federal Credit Union Hosts STEM Workshop to Inspire the Next Generation of Innovators
Temple Hills, MD (April 8, 2025): Transportation Federal Credit Union (TFCU) hosted an engaging, hands-on STEM workshop designed to empower middle school students to dream big and explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
On April 8, TFCU partnered with the Bright Star Enrichment Program (BSEP) and Today’s Promise Foundation at Thurgood Marshall Middle School in Temple Hills, MD, providing students with expert guidance as they prepared submissions for the annual Dare-to-Soar Contest. More than 40 students, ages 11-13, participated in the immersive experience.
Launched in 2023, the Dare-to-Soar Contest challenged students to envision their futures while introducing them to thewide range of STEM-related careers available through the U.S. Department of Transportation. During this year’sworkshop, students heard from Dr. Rachel Sparklin, a microbiologist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, who shared insights into real-world STEM pathways and encouraged participants to think creatively about innovation and problem-solving.
Throughout the workshop, students received hands-on support in developing their contest entries, which included a 600–800 word essay and an original art piece.
“This workshop is about more than a contest – it was about opening doors,” said TFCU’s Chief Marketing Officer, Sharmaine Bucknor. “We wanted students to see themselves as future engineers, scientists, innovators, and leaders who can shape the world of transportation.”
The contest offers a grand prize of $500 and two (2) runner-up prizes of $250 each. All winners will receive a $100 donation to their school or organization. The submission deadline is April 15, 2026 with winners announced in May during the Transportation Federal Credit Union Annual Meeting.
Transportation Federal Credit Union was founded in 1939 to provide financial services to the transportation community. The organization has grown to serve over 15,000 members nationwide. With over $340 million in assets, the organization welcomes active, retired, military personnel or contractors of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Department of Maritime Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Railroad Association, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as well as 100+ employer groups to open an account. For more information about the organization or to become a member, visit www.TransFCU.org or call 202.366.9400.
About Today’s Promise Foundation
Today’s Promise Foundation is a dedicated 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to uplifting underserved communities and small businesses. They believe in empowering their members by providing access to essential business development workshops, valuable resources, and opportunities that are often limited to more affluent populations. Together, they strive to promote economic wellbeing and financial stability for all.
About Bright Star Enrichment Program
The Bright Star Enrichment Program at Thurgood Marshall Middle School is designed to enhance students’ academic skills in core subjects like Math and English/Language Arts while also offering diverse enrichment opportunities in the arts and financial literacy. This program is funded by the Maryland State Department of Education’s Public School Opportunities Enhancement Grant and serves students in grades 6-7, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience that supports both academic success and personal growth.