Barstow Community College officials have announced the launch of its new Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program.
The program is a statewide initiative designed to support student success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Officials said the program strengthens Barstow Community College’s role as a regional hub for innovation and high-demand academic pathways.
MESA is a California program with over 55 years of impact and a network of over 95 community colleges statewide.
Barstow Community College was awarded funding through a competitive grant from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office to bring the program to the High Desert to expand access to STEM education, college officials stated.
“Over the last six fall semesters, 2,899 students have declared a STEM major at Barstow Community College, reflecting strong and growing interest in science and technology pathways,” the college said.
Between fall 2020 and fall 2025, the college experienced a 106% increase in STEM majors, underscoring sustained momentum and demand for STEM education.
MESA Program Director Donna Troy Wangler said she is thrilled that Barstow Community College has joined the California Community College network of over 95 MESA programs statewide.
“As the first director of the MESA program here at BCC, I work diligently and passionately on behalf of students to build a program from the ground up that will provide ample support to STEM students,” Wangler said. “I encourage all STEM students to apply to be part of this special first cohort of MESA students. Let’s grow this exciting program together!”
Students at Barstow Community College are enrolled in biology, environmental science, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics.
Many students are first-generation college students pursuing rigorous academic pathways that lead to transfer opportunities and careers in health care, research, engineering, and technology.
The MESA program will be housed in a dedicated campus space designed to support studying, collaboration, and innovation. Students are already participating in early MESA activities, with the first official cohort launching in spring 2026 and expanded enrollment planned for fall 2026.
Barstow Community College Superintendent-President Dr. Eva Bagg said Barstow College believes the talented youth of the region deserve every opportunity to thrive in highly competitive STEM fields.
“The MESA program not only provides the academic support needed for success, but it also connects students to real-world STEM careers through mentorships and industry partnerships,” Bragg said. “This initiative complements our workforce development efforts and strategic collaborations, such as the BNSF BIG project, ensuring that students can achieve economic mobility while contributing to the growth and innovation of Barstow and the High Desert.”
For more information, visit barstow.edu.
Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on X @DP_ReneDeLaCruz.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Barstow Community College program expands access to STEM education
Reporting by Rene Ray De La Cruz, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
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