HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (August 10, 2023) – The Toyota USA Foundation has announced grants of up to $6.7 million to prepare students in Huntsville City Schools for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This initiative is part of Toyota’s Driving Possibilities program and will be rolled out over five years in select schools.

“Our goal is to increase awareness of future STEM careers while building sustainable programs in the communities where our Toyota team members live and work,” said Tellis Bethel, Toyota’s Group Vice President of Social Innovation. “By providing $2.9 million in the first year and more in the years to come, we look forward to expanding Driving Possibilities in the Huntsville area.”

Driving Possibilities focuses on PreK-12 education and complements existing programs across the country. The initiative aims to address educational gaps for students through innovative, hands-on STEM programming while meeting the essential needs of students and families.

“The Driving Possibilities framework takes a holistic approach to addressing education gaps,” said Jason Puckett, President of Toyota Alabama. “Our mission is to collaborate with local schools, community partners, and other businesses to help students reach their full potential. The success of our students will determine the future of our community.”

“Toyota understands the importance of training and preparing our students for high-tech, 21st-century jobs when they graduate,” said Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth. “Alabama consistently ranks among the nation’s leaders in economic development and industrial recruitment, and thanks to generous corporate partners like Toyota, we have the tools to maintain that top ranking for years to come.”

This announcement supports a new industrial tech program at the recently announced Huntsville City Schools Career Tech Center, providing a direct pathway into high-demand manufacturing careers. Driving Possibilities is also funding new teacher coaches, training, and mentorship at select schools in partnership with the New Teacher Center.

In 2022, the Toyota USA Foundation launched Driving Possibilities, a $110 million national career readiness and community engagement initiative aimed at preparing youth for future careers. This program brings together educators, local and national nonprofits, and communities to create limitless possibilities for all. With efforts spanning from PreK-12 education, it is the largest and most comprehensive initiative in Toyota’s history. Toyota USA Foundation, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), and Toyota Financial Services (TFS) fund this initiative.

Huntsville, Alabama, is the fifth site to launch Driving Possibilities programming, building on over 60 years of active support for Toyota communities across the U.S. and leveraging the successful model in West Dallas.