Engineering Extravaganza

March 7, 2009

In anticipation of an upcoming shortage in professionals within STEM – science, technology, engineering and mathematics, the College of Engineering hosted the Engineering Extravaganza, March 7, in Patrick F. Taylor Hall. More than 300 parents and students, in grades 6 through 12, attended this free event, open to the public.

Students participated in fun hands-on activities designed to teach basic engineering principles. Informational sessions were available for parents and students, including a discipline chat and panel discussion with faculty and student organization leaders.

“The feedback from our youth and parents was tremendous and we’re glad to have been a part of the program activities,” said Dynell Jones, LSU Engineering Alumnus. “We look forward to participating in upcoming events/activities.” Mr. Jones brought 25 parents and students from the Believers Family Worship Center in New Iberia.

Attendees also had the opportunity to join in three nanotechnology demonstration sessions given by Dr. Sunggook Park, assistant professor in Mechanical Engineering.

“It was a great experience for me to get in touch with the students and their parents during the Engineering Extravaganza. I saw it in their eyes, responses, and questions during the nanotechnology demonstrations- they were eager to learn about engineering. We definitely need more events like this in order to attract more students to engineering for their future career. They are short of the information,” said Dr. Park.

“It was very exciting to see the dedication of the various members of the College of Engineering building bridges to the K-12 community. This day would not have been possible without the support and efforts of our engineering student organizations, faculty and staff! My hope is to continue to water this seed we have planted and continue to provide this service to our community and future engineering students,” exclaimed Summer Dann, STEP Coordinator. “We truly appreciate our sponsor, BP, who provided refreshments for the day.”

Article by Akilah Taylor, LSU College of Engineering, 225-578-0092, ataylor1@lsu.edu

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