Saucon Valley High School students visited Victaulic and other regional employers to learn about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics Monday.
Across the nation, the number of students who are interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related (STEM) careers is declining.
The growing shortage of science-based talent represents a problem for local companies such as Victaulic, Follett and Crayola, which is why they hosted 50 Saucon Valley High School students Monday as part of the school’s Project Lead The Way (PLTW) engineering program.
“A critical step in making science and math engaging and relevant to students is providing them with authentic, real-life experiences,” commented Monica McHale-Small, Saucon Valley School District Superintendent, in a news release about the visit.
“Applying engineering, science, math and technology knowledge and skills to solve complex open-ended problems in a real world context is the goal of Saucon Valley High School’s (SVHS) Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering program,” the news release stated. “By understanding the science and math behind various life situations, students gain an appreciation for engineering and become more invested in their classroom lessons.”
“The fastest growing careers require science, technology, engineering and math knowledge at the core,” said Eric Luftig, Victaulic Vice President. “Together with our colleagues at Crayola and Follett, we are committed to inspiring young people to consider STEM disciplines and help prepare them for the future.”
All three manufacturers have worked to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics opportunities in classrooms in the past, such as with their involvement in Dream It. Do It. PA’s “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing?” video contest.
They will join 27 other regional manufacturers in the 2017 initiative, which invites students inside manufacturing facilities to discover STEM jobs and help change perceptions and attitudes in the Keystone State about advanced manufacturing careers.
Recently, Victaulic, Crayola and Follett also partnered for “Stuff the Bus,” a community initiative to collect school supplies for students at Cheston Elementary in Easton. A total of 600 backpacks were assembled and distributed during the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley’s annual Day of Caring event.
Note: This story includes information from a Victaulic news release.
