Our Story
We named ourselves Ascent after the Colorado mountains that first took our breath away: the way a summit looks impossible until you take the first step. The mountains taught us a simple truth: every climb is made of many small footholds, smart gear, and people who believe in you. Ascent STEM creates those footholds for students, especially those from underserved communities, by pairing hands-on projects with mentorship, resources, and real-world experience. Student-led at our core, we guide one another up challenging terrain so curiosity becomes confidence, projects become solutions, and young people become the next generation of innovators and leaders.
Meet the Team
Vyom Jain
Co-Founder & President
Hi, I’m Vyom Jain, a high school junior passionate about engineering, leadership, and empowering students through STEM. I co-founded Ascent STEM to help students turn ideas into real projects that create positive change. To include all students with diverse backgrounds to all receive the same opportunities.
Dipan Dangi
Co-Founder & President
Hey, I’m Dipan Dangi, a proud high schooler from the class of 2027. I dabble in a bit of everything in the STEM world, but I love building and designing things from the ground up. I am particularly passionate about Engineering and Additive Manufacturing. I co-founded Ascent STEM to fill the gaps in STEM education with hands-on experiences.
Shreyas Sundaresan
Vice-President of Operations
I am Shreyas Sundaresan, a high school junior. I am passionate about science and STEM education, and have a strong commitment to creating meaningful change and building equity within communities. I joined Ascent STEM to help ensure that underprivileged students have access to opportunities to explore and succeed in STEM fields.