The ATTA Library of STEM & History is an interactive library of the future located in the heart of Southeast Alabama. The ATTA is a hands-on learning hub where science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) and history collide in exciting and immersive ways. Visitors explore exhibits, experiment with technology and experience history through virtual reality, interactive simulations and design-based learning—all in rural Alabama.

At The ATTA, curiosity meets opportunity. It’s a place where learners of all ages can discover new ideas, create with their hands and connect with resources they’d never find at home. That’s why The ATTA is such a natural partner for the Connect Everyone Coalition (CEC)—together, we’re ensuring that every learner, no matter how rural their zip code, can connect to the world of STEM.

“The ATTA’s story is one of trailblazers and dreamers,” says Kate Killebrew, executive director. “Our founding donor, Susie Ezzell Atta, grew up in the 1920s believing that—with a little help and a lot of hard work—you can be and do whatever you want. Today, that belief depends on access to technology and high-speed connectivity. Too many Alabama students still lack both. We’re proud to work with CEC to close that gap and open new doors for learning.”

Connectivity remains one of Alabama’s biggest barriers to opportunity—nearly one in five Alabama households still lack access to reliable internet. Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet has the potential to quickly and fully connect these underserved communities that are being left out and left behind when it comes to 21^st-century innovation. This newer, nimbler generation of satellites can provide nearly fiber-like speeds without the costly and time-intensive infrastructure of traditional technologies—providing a connectivity solution for even the most rural and remote neighborhoods across Alabama.

“Organizations like The ATTA play a pivotal role in their communities,” says Richard Cullen, CEC executive director. “Having a place where students can come to learn and explore can completely change the game for a young person who may not otherwise have the resources to do so. Ensuring that every learner, across Alabama and beyond, has the tools they need to take full advantage of 21^st-century educational opportunities is what our mission is all about.”

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2021, STEM-related occupations accounted for nearly 25 percent of all jobs in the U.S.—and they’re rapidly growing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that the median annual wages for STEM careers are more than double that for non-STEM occupations—a difference of more than $50,000 annually.

Through increased access to reliable, high-speed broadband connection, LEO satellites can ensure every student, everywhere, has access to the tools and resources they need to keep up with modern-day technologies and competencies and be ready to succeed in a tech-forward workforce.

“Even in the most remote parts of Mongolia, I had stronger cell service than my hometown of Abbeville, Alabama,” says John Riley, The ATTA’s inspiration director and international motivational speaker. “That’s why The ATTA’s work with CEC matters—every learner deserves access to the same world of ideas, no matter where they live.”