Robert Cobb Jr., an associate professor at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T), has dedicated his career to bridging the gap in STEM education for underrepresented and marginalized students. With degrees from Virginia Tech and North Carolina A&T, including a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction, Cobb combines his academic expertise with a deep passion for advancing STEM education. Since 2020, he has served as the site director for N.C. A&T’s Unite program. 

A Passion for STEM Education

Cobb was first introduced to Unite through Mrs. Clark, a former colleague from Virginia Tech, who encouraged him to apply and become an online teacher for the program. She informed him that Unite was a grant-funded opportunity, and, motivated by his professional goal to provide STEM learning opportunities for underrepresented students, Cobb wrote a grant to bring Unite to his institution, N.C. A&T. 

Expanding Unite’s Reach

Under Cobb’s leadership, the Unite program at N.C. A&T has grown significantly. Initially serving 13 students, the program now hosts over 20 students each summer, including participants from South Carolina and Virginia, thanks to its flexible virtual format. The program’s carefully thought out curriculum allows students to engage in critical thinking and hands-on experiences, such as learning about drone technology in agriculture, a theme introduced in Summer 2024. Parents appreciate the program for providing engaging summer activities while exposing students to innovative STEM fields.

Impactful Experiences

One of Cobb’s favorite aspects of the program is the opportunity to bring students on campus to engage in activities like 3D printing. Watching students bring their virtual designs to life is a highlight for him. Guest speaker sessions, featuring professionals from organizations like NASA and the Department of Defense, are also particularly popular among students. These sessions offer students the chance to connect with role models who share similar backgrounds and aspirations – and who look like them.

Transformative Outcomes

Cobb’s most memorable experiences involve witnessing students uncover new career possibilities they hadn’t previously considered. Some students enter the program interested in non-STEM fields, such as law, but leave eager to pursue STEM careers. Two former Unite participants are now enrolled at NC A&T, majoring in departments where Cobb is a faculty member. These success stories are a testament to the program’s impact in guiding students toward STEM pathways and supporting their academic and professional journeys.

A Mentor and Advocate

Cobb’s commitment to his students extends beyond the program. He provides ongoing mentorship, writing letters of recommendation and offering academic and professional advice. His open-door policy ensures that former Unite students feel supported throughout their educational journeys.

Personal and Professional Fulfillment

For Cobb, the Unite program has reinforced his purpose in education. It has equipped him to effectively deliver STEM education in a hybrid environment, reaching a diverse student population. He remains a staunch advocate for Unite, emphasizing its role in providing students with options and opportunities that can shape their futures.

Cobb encourages prospective Unite students to embrace the program’s diverse themes and view it as a chance to explore new interests. “Don’t shy away from something because it doesn’t fit the box or plan you had initially laid out,” he advises. “Give it a try. You might discover a passion you never knew you had.”

Visit https://www.usaeop.com/program/unite/ to learn more about Unite.