The Center for Applied Competitive Technologies at Irvine Valley College played an instrumental role in supporting AISS. The following information pertains to a grant request that helped AISS obtain financial support from Allergan, Incorporated.

What is the Achievement Institute of Scientific Studies (AISS)?

The Achievement Institute of Scientific Studies (AISS), a non-profit 501 (C) (3) organization based in Orange County, California, was established to increase knowledge among high school students in science, mathematics, engineering and technology.

AISS was founded by business and retired educators to create educational avenues for bright, financially-challenged students. The program is housed in private industries in the community and provides students with a relevant view of industry.

AISS has adopted the Learn By Doing approach. Learn By Doing includes an element of parallel learning (application learning) that is added to the traditional learning methods of textbook reading, classroom lecture, written assignments and testing. AISS complements existing academic programs through stimulating and rewarding extracurricular activities.

The cornerstone of AISS's program is to invite bright, financially-deprived high school students to attend after-school classes, workshops and demonstrations to increase and improve their applications of science, mathematics and technology skills. Students participate in enriching programs offered by industry and institutions of higher learning.

Vision/Mission Statement

AISS, working with hundreds of collaborative partners (high schools, colleges, industry, government agencies, professional societies, community organizations and volunteers), assists young people in applying science and mathematics knowledge in meaningful ways that result in fulfilling careers. The mission of AISS is to raise the level of education in science and mathematics by providing educational enrichment to academically gifted, but economically disadvantaged high school students. Through the use of after-school, weekend and summer activities that supplement current high school curricula, students apply theory in innovative learning experiences.

Strategic Goals:

I. Establish a well-defined educational program.

II. Select motivated students that meet program criteria.

III. Obtain support for AISS program activities.

Phase I (Pilot Program) 2001-2002

AISS began operations in June, 2001. A pilot program was initiated that consisted of six high school sophomores from Santa Ana High School. These students participated in eighty hours of academic seminars and industry workshops in laser medicine, optics manufacturing, digital imaging, computer aided design, engineering research and cinema computer design.

Sponsoring organizations included Trimedyne Incorporated, J.L. Woods Optical, Swift Engineering, Irvine Valley College, Liquid Logic Productions and the Discovery Science Center.

Phase II 2002-2003

AISS will begin phase two during the summer of 2002. Original participants will continue with the program. Additionally, new students will be added.

Program Schedule

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: ACHIEVEMENT INSTITUTE OF SCIENTIFIC STUDIES (AISS)

Honorary Chairmen
Dr. Ralph Cicerone
Chancellor, University of California, Irvine
Carl N. Karcher
Founder, Carl's Jr.

Honorary Directors
Christopher Cox
United States Representative
Loretta Sanchez
United States Representative

Officers
Paul J. Riordan
President/Founder
Bernard M. Jansen
Secretary/Treasurer