A group of area colleges and nonprofits formed the MetroWest STEM Education Network to increase the number of students interested in entering the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. The group comprises representatives from Framingham State College, MassBay Community College, Olin College, and Regis College, along with the MetroWest Chamber of Commerce, I-495 MetroWest Partnership and the MetroSouth/West Regional Employment Board. The group’s goal is to increase the motivation and preparation of students, boost the number of teachers in the fields, and increase public awareness of the need for more workers. Executive Director of STEM Kevin Thurston published an opinion piece in the Worcester Business Journal on the shortage of workers in these fields, as well as the need for more funding and collaboration with these students. The piece appeared in the paper on Monday, March 3.