RACINE - Students at Southern High School embarked on an exciting and innovative high-tech career exploration, marking a significant day filled with inspiration and discovery on Thursday, Sept. 24.
The TECHMobile program made a special stop in Racine, transforming the school gym into a vibrant hub where students could connect with seasoned professionals from various fields. This engaging program was brought by Mantel Technologies, supported by the Ohio Department of Development, and aimed at igniting the passions of future innovators.
TECHMobile Outreach Coordinators, Kasey Mader and Abby Matthews, played a crucial role in orchestrating this event. Their incredible team connected students from grades 9 to 12 with enthusiastic business professionals who shared their genuine excitement for STEM-related careers.
The atmosphere buzzed with energy as students interacted with these mentors, eager to learn and explore the vast possibilities ahead of them.
“Providing students a chance to explore diverse STEM pathways through regional industry organizations drives what we do at TECHMobile,” Matthews shared. “We want to bridge the gap between awareness and possibility, allowing students an opportunity to experience hands-on technology and find their passion or future career.”
A diverse array of professionals attended, hailing from esteemed organizations like Vitruvian, Ohio University’s Russ College of Engineering and Technology , Ohio University, Kokosing, Apalachin Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition (AOMC), Hocking College, Grimm, ZMM Architect Engineers, Meigs County Engineering Office, BB2C, University of Rio Grande, University of Rio Grande Meigs Center, Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), Wilmington College, DPC Fabrication, and Washington State Community College.
The event highlighted the multitude of opportunities awaiting students in STEM fields and beyond. The event featured hands-on interactive activities that captivated students’ imaginations.
One of the fun experiences was the TECHMobile demo, where students used their body movements to control a robotic arm, tasked with picking up a ball and placing it in a plastic container.
Laughter filled the air, along with shouts of encouragement, as students tackled the challenge, feeling a sense of achievement with every successful attempt.
Madalynn Shockey, a junior with aspirations of becoming a nurse, found the experience particularly impactful. She enjoyed conversing with Michelle Bird, the director of the Rio Grande Meigs Center.
“It was a very cool opportunity,” Shockey said enthusiastically. “Learning about CPR techniques on an infant dummy really stood out to me. The career fair opened my eyes to various possibilities and made me think clearer about my potential career choices.”
Her classmate, Haylee Shamblin, also a junior, is considering a future in elementary education. She reflected on how the TECHMobile event broadened her perspective.
“It truly opened my eyes to the many opportunities available to me when deciding my career path,” Shamblin shared.
Throughout the event, students enjoyed trying out remote control cars, admiring a soaring drone, and witnessing robots in action. The students dove into the fascinating world of 3-D printing, exploring how furniture and houses can be created through this innovative technology.
With every question posed to the representatives, students explored pathways for furthering their education while feeling the excitement of hands-on exploration.
SHS Principal Daniel Otto expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, recognizing their contributions to creating a day filled with hands-on STEM experiences.
“I am incredibly thankful for the dedication and enthusiasm shown by all those involved,” Otto said. “Your efforts brought excitement and inspiration to our students, showcasing the endless possibilities that lie before them. This event enhances educational opportunities and workforce development in our region.”
On top of having memorable STEM experiences, the students were also given the opportunity to improve their communication skills, make professional connections, and discover in demand jobs.
Donuts and coffee were provided for the presenters thanks to a generous donation by the Meigs County Foundation.
SHS is also very appreciative of the specially made toolbox created by AOMC interns.
Thank you to everyone who helped with the event, including setup and cleanup, technological needs, preparing drinks, and other behind the scenes work.
