Chris Standerford, director of both the Seaborg Center at NMU and the MiSTEM Network's central U.P. region, recently received the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award from the MiWorks! Association. He was honored for being a longtime champion of education and workforce development, particularly related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) careers.
“This award is special to me for a couple of reasons,” Standerford said. “First, it highlights the incredible partnerships we have across Michigan and speaks to the work we've been able to accomplish to enhance our state's economy now and for future generations. Through collective impact, we have increased the number of opportunities for people to engage with STEM in Michigan.
"Second, it's special because it has helped me recognize how important volunteering and staying involved is and how much it can add value to our daily work in return. I'm proud to be able to bring a voice from NMU and the MiSTEM Network to regional and state workforce conversations and initiatives.”
In a press release, Michigan Works! credited Standerford with leading efforts to leverage partnerships, both at the university and across the region.
“Chris Standerford is an outstanding ambassador for workforce development and education, bringing together partnerships that strengthen student learning opportunities across the Upper Peninsula,” said Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt. “His insight and advocacy have been invaluable and that is why he is our 2025 Volunteer of the Year.”
Through NMU's Seaborg Center at NMU and the MiSTEM Network, Standerford is able to assist in providing leadership, professional learning for educators, and direct K-12 student programming, all of which aim to increase STEM opportunities for learners of all ages.
MiSTEM is a statewide educational system that works to improve students' preparation for an evolving workforce. Standerford is director of region 15, which covers Menominee, Marquette, Alger, Delta, Schoolcraft, Dickinson and Iron counties. He coordinates and oversees the progress of STEM education in the region and works to align efforts with the state's overall needs and goals.
Standerford is also a member and past chair of the Career & Educational Advisory Committee (CEAC), which informs the regional Workforce Board. He said the CEAC and its partners have been able to conduct data collection about career exploration in local schools, coordinate large career exploration events across the U.P., leverage GIS technology to map local industries and employers in STEM fields, increase the number of youth apprenticeships, and coordinate teacher industry tours across the entire U.P.
The Volunteer of the Year award pays tribute to an individual from the private sector who is dedicated to the growth and promotion of Michigan Works!