InqTech received a grant and were relocating to the area because local schools were participating in its research to create a digital platform for students to show what they know by recording think-out-loud explanations and interactions with content. This digital recording then can be shared with students’ teachers, parents and others, who also can provide feedback. In addition, it helps begin a conversation at home about the importance of STEM careers, which is particularly important in rural communities, where parental influence is a dominant factor in determining a student’s career pathway beyond high school but few parents in those communities work in STEM-related fields.
“This is a really good situation,” said Dr. Scott Stuckey, founder and chief technology officer of the company. “As a start-up company, we found a lot of value in the space, location and other resources.”
The company hired a full-time employee this year and will be expanding again in 2020 as it prepares to market its product. EKCEP and TeleWorks will be its first client as it not only expands to other schools but also targets workforce development. InqTech also is working to adapt its program to deal with substance abuse by helping those in the later stages of recovery with job interview skills as well as serving an outlet for their expression that also allows them to maintain privacy.
“The access to KHIC, Melissa Conn and the other folks were instrumental in making connections to business people, networking and accessing various resources through workshops,” Stuckey said.
Inquiry Technology is located online at InquiryTechnologies.com