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The National Board of The ROCKS, Inc., a leading professional organization for military officers, has taken a groundbreaking step by partnering with STEM City USA to establish a virtual headquarters in the metaverse. This collaboration centers around the David Steward Building within STEM City USA, which will serve as a dedicated digital space for military service groups to connect, collaborate, and foster community. This virtual venue is designed to promote innovation, equity, and honor, reflecting the values upheld by these military professionals.
The David Steward Building isn't just another piece of virtual real estate. According to Dr. Tyrone Taborn, Founder of STEM City USA and Chairman of Career Communications Group, it stands as a sanctuary that celebrates the identity and achievements of those who have served. The initiative offers personalized Virtual Tribute Hall Rooms for each service group, where their unique legacy and mission are showcased. These rooms provide a secure environment, free from government or public surveillance, allowing confidential discussions and activities to take place with peace of mind.
In addition to guaranteeing privacy, the platform boasts seamless communication tools such as Zoom integration, real-time chat, and other engagement features. These resources are provided free of charge to partner organizations, ensuring accessibility without financial burdens. STEM City USA has also committed to full technical support, including setup, maintenance, and ongoing training for representatives from each military service group.
A key pillar of this partnership is its firm dedication to inclusivity. Regardless of race, gender, or background, all service groups are granted equal access to this innovative digital space, reinforcing a shared commitment to diversity and mutual respect. Vice Admiral Andy Winns, a prominent figure in STEM City USA’s military outreach, emphasized that this collaboration is about building a future where access, service, and innovation intersect.
This initiative also addresses a significant gap highlighted by the U.S. Census Bureau: while veterans make up nearly 7% of the U.S. workforce, they remain underrepresented in rapidly growing sectors like technology and STEM. By creating digital equity hubs tailored for military professionals, STEM City USA positions itself as a vital platform to bridge this divide and foster greater inclusion in these critical fields.
The David Steward Building pays tribute to its namesake, David L. Steward, a billionaire tech entrepreneur known for his leadership in technology and business. It symbolizes Black excellence and represents one of the most important virtual spaces aimed at reducing the digital divide among underserved and underrepresented communities.
STEM City USA itself is a fully immersive digital city focused on narrowing gaps in education, health, and economic opportunity through technology. It prioritizes support for BIPOC, military, and other underserved populations by offering year-round programming, networking, and professional development within a safe, inclusive virtual environment.
The ROCKS, Inc. has long been committed to mentorship, leadership, and excellence. With the addition of a presence in the metaverse through STEM City USA and the David Steward Building, the organization now has a virtual home that truly embodies its core values and mission. This partnership marks a cultural and technological milestone, one that could redefine how military professionals engage with innovation and community in the digital age.
