Building the future through STEM: How Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation inspires tomorrow’s innovators

Most major decisions today, from healthcare to sustainability, depend on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Early STEM education prepares students for careers and develops the next generation of innovators and leaders.

At Boehringer Ingelheim, we foster innovation through partnerships. Through the Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation (Boehringer Cares), we collaborate with local schools to deliver STEM opportunities to students—helping them explore, discover, and prepare for future careers.

Last month, Boehringer Cares partnered with our sites across the U.S. to host the second annual STEM Day—an event for over 180 students and 21 educators, guided by 120+ employee volunteers. The Innovation in Action theme allowed students to step into labs and manufacturing sites to see discoveries firsthand.

Each U.S. location designed programming to match its expertise and local needs. From pharmaceutical research and manufacturing to robotics, microbiology, and packaging automation, students participated in hands-on activities, demonstrating how STEM solves real problems. They toured labs, practiced technical skills, and met employees who shared their career journeys, showing science as a path to impact, especially for the patients we serve.

In Ridgefield, students learned an essential skill: creating an elevator pitch. This taught clear, confident communication—crucial for academics, interviews, and careers. STEM Day did more than showcase science; it equipped students to express ideas and build confidence.

“STEM Day reflects our Boehringer Cares commitment to strengthening the communities where we live and work. By welcoming students into our sites and sharing our passion for science, we help them see how science and innovation can be a pathway to making a real difference. Watching their curiosity spark reminds us that investing in their future is one of the most meaningful ways we can serve our communities,” said Kristin Segrue, Associate Director, Boehringer Cares and U.S. STEM Day Lead.

For students, meeting Boehringer scientists offered more than technical lessons. They saw what motivates our people and how science can impact the world. One student captured the spirit of the day perfectly:

“STEM Day showed me how many different minds and skills come together to create medicine. Seeing the passion and joy of Boehringer Ingelheim employees working toward one goal made me want to be part of it too.”

The impact of STEM Day was felt not only by the students but also by those who helped bring the event to life. Several employees said the students’ energy and curiosity were contagious throughout the day. Their excitement reignited their passion for STEM and reminded them of the joy of discovery.

Through scholarships, mentoring, and partnerships, Boehringer Cares creates opportunities for students to become innovators. These efforts strengthen communities and advance scientific progress.

STEM Day shows how our people bring science to life—not just in the lab, but through mentorship and community connection. Watching our teams inspire the next generation was a proud moment. I look forward to seeing these students apply their creativity to shape the future,” said Pratima Bansal-Pakala, Executive Director, Drug Concept Discovery.

To learn more, visit: Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation | Boehringer Ingelheim US