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COPA-STEP

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Science and Technology Policy Program

Our Mission

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Science and Technology Policy Program (COPA-STEP) aims to improve public and environmental health, economic and social equity, and public scientific discourse in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. COPA-STEP enables a diverse, civic-scientific community and builds bridges between the science, technology, and policy communities for the benefit of the public in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Logo for COPA STEP featuring a beaker and the keystone symbol for Pennsylvania.
Portrait of Patricia Gruver Barr

Our Team
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Fellowships & Traineeships
Harrisburg Capitol Building

Events
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We are part of Penn State's Law, Policy, and Engineering Initiative

Founded as a volunteer program, COPA-STEP became part of LPE in October 2023, where it now operates under LPE’s guidance to deliver practical science and technology policy training and outreach.

COPA-STEP serves as the applied practice branch of LPE’s interdisciplinary mission. While LPE drives interdisciplinary education in law, policy, and engineering, COPA-STEP specializes in real-world policy engagement and professional development, reinforcing LPE's mission to produce actionable knowledge that supports public, environmental, and scientific welfare. Through COPA-STEP, LPE faculty and staff deliver hands-on training to fellows in Pennsylvania’s governor’s office, focusing on science communication, policy writing, and engagement in legislative settings.

Portrait of Laura Ballek-Cole

“The City of Allentown would benefit tremendously from tapping into this pipeline of emerging scientific and technical talent.”

Laura Balleck-Cole , Civic Innovation Manager, City of Allentown, Pennsylvania

We are part of a national effort.

Our Pennsylvania program is part of a growing trend across the U.S.to bridge the gap between the scientific community and policy decision makers. Together, LPE and COPA-STEP aim to develop Pennsylvania's science-policy ecosystem and foster collaboration with state government.

Map of the USA indicating states with Science and Technology Policy Fellowships in State-Level Government.

Latest News

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