The STEM Talk | Episode 16: Beyond the Fund 8.6.2026

Episode 16: Beyond the Funding The real action has shifted to the states and the closing days of this Congress. This month we dig into the wave of state AI-in-education bills, the WIOA waivers reshaping how STEM dollars get used, and last week's OSTP "Golden Age" report resetting federal science priorities. We're also joined by special guest Dr. Holly Miller, Federal Liaison for NASA's Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM). Holly shares how STEM programs can partner with NASA, tap its resources and opportunities, build ecosystems that work, and prepare students for an AI-shaped future. In this episode, we cover: The state-level surge on AI in education and the waivers reshaping how STEM dollars flow; Key federal updates: OSTP's new science priorities and the new graduate loan and Workforce Pell rules now in effect; Partnering with NASA's Office of STEM Engagement — resources, ecosystems, and students in an AI era.