Generac inspires next generation of STEM innovators with USCA science education center donation

Thursday, May 14, 2026 • Angela Saxon
Dr. Phillip Bridgmon, provost of academic affairs, Kelly Skindzelewski, community programs manager at Generac, Dr. Daniel Heimmermann, chancellor, Alicia Padgett, recruiter at Generac in Trenton, SC, and John Hutchens, director of Special Programs at the RPSEC
Dr. Phillip Bridgmon, provost of academic affairs, Kelly Skindzelewski, community programs manager at Generac, Dr. Daniel Heimmermann, chancellor, Alicia Padgett, recruiter at Generac in Trenton, SC, and John Hutchens, director of Special Programs at the RPSEC

Generac is supporting the expansion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programming at USCA’s Ruth Patrick Science Education Center through a $23,500 contribution. The funding will help grow educational programs and sponsorship opportunities throughout the year while furthering the center’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. 

The power systems company presented the donation during a check presentation with Dr. Daniel Heimmermann, chancellor of USCA, and Dr. Phil Bridgemon, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs.  

The new funding will enhance several key initiatives, including the Science Education Enrichment Day (SEED) STEM Festival, the Full STEAM Ahead summer camp and student program sponsorships for both the physical science and mathematics content series. 

“The RPSEC has a foundation built on partnerships and relationships with organizations like Generac,” said Senn. “Without the support of these partnerships, we would be unable to inspire a love for STEM throughout our community, and the RPSEC would not be the STEM education leader it is today.” 

According to Kelly Skindzelewski, community programs manager for Generac, the partnership between the company and the center began shortly after Generac opened its facility in Trenton, South Carolina, in 2021. 

“When Generac first opened our facility in Trenton, we began searching for local STEM programs we could engage with and discovered the nearby Ruth Patrick Science Education Center,” Skindzelewski said. “The center offers a variety of programs that align with our interests and continue to provide meaningful ways to engage with local schools and the community.” 

Skindzelewski said Generac and the Generac Foundation view education and innovation as critical drivers of economic growth and career development. 

“Giving back to the community where our employees live and work is an important part of Generac’s culture,” she said. “The RPSEC provides unique opportunities for us to support educational programs that help prepare young people for future careers.” 

She added that Generac sees opportunities for continued collaboration with RPSEC in areas ranging from science and cybersecurity to business administration and electrical engineering. 

“Middle and high school students are looking for hands-on experiences that help guide their future career paths,” Skindzelewski said. “We’re excited to continue supporting programs that introduce students to those possibilities.” 

Skindzelewski added that supporting STEM education is critical to developing future leaders who will solve problems and drive innovation. By investing in youth STEM programs at the Ruth Patrick Science Eduation Center, the company hopes to spark curiosity and create meaningful “light bulb moments” that inspire students to explore future careers in STEM.  

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