Lightyear Foundation’s Post

Designing concept ideas, such as a Formula 1 concept car, offers students a host of valuable benefits. First and foremost, it nurtures their creativity and innovation. Encouraging students to envision and craft their own concept car empowers them to think outside the box, exploring unconventional ideas and design elements. This creative freedom sparks their imaginations, fostering a sense of curiosity and problem-solving as they tackle the intricate challenges of automotive design. Through this process, students learn that innovation often arises from pushing boundaries and embracing unique solutions, a lesson that extends far beyond the realm of design. Furthermore, designing a Formula 1 concept car is a multidisciplinary endeavor that seamlessly integrates various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines. Students gain practical experience in applying scientific principles, utilizing engineering concepts, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies. They delve into aerodynamics, materials science, and even computer-aided design (CAD) software, honing essential skills for a future in STEM-related fields. This hands-on, holistic approach to learning not only deepens their understanding of these subjects but also cultivates essential life skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and attention to detail. Ultimately, the process of designing a Formula 1 concept car offers students a dynamic and enriching educational experience that prepares them for the complexities of the modern world.

This Saturday, I spent my day at the FIRST Tech Challenge State Championship at the University of Indianapolis. I met students who will study computer science, engineering (mechanical, electrical, industrial, etc.), hospitality and tourism, studio art, nursing, education (thank goodness...we need you!!!), and business. Because FIRST teams are simulated businesses whose final product is a competitive industrial robot, they need students and mentors from every wing of a school building. Budding entrepreneurs to write and implement business plans, future mechanical engineers, coders, electricians, machinists and others to build the robot. They need graphic designers and students interested in marketing to get their brand out in the community. Our teams need students and mentors who want to plan and execute community outreach events to inspire and impact younger generations. I saw teams give standing ovations to other teams during our awards ceremony. I saw kids from opposite ends of the state high-five and hug each other in congratulations on winning or advancing to our world championship. Everything we do in our program allows students to APPLY their classroom learning with real-world challenges. Not only technical challenges but all the other community-based problem-solving challenges mentioned. Our students are asked to describe the stewardship of their sponsor relationships. They are asked about recruiting and retention of students and mentors. They are asked how they are making their community a better place. Oh, and they build a competitive robot from scratch where they have to learn CAD, the design process, source materials for their build, prototype, and fabricate. Then, when they compete, they get to see if their application is successful. If not, go back to the drawing board. (sound familiar?) Do you want to learn more? Do you want to be inspired by these amazing young people? Come to Columbus East High School this Saturday, March 16th, to see FIRST Robotics Competition in action, and I'll pair you up with a student ambassador. You will leave wanting to know more... Interested? https://lnkd.in/eujm35WU Indy Women in Tech Indy Chamber Indiana Chamber of Commerce One Southern Indiana Chamber & Economic Development Aspire Economic Development + Chamber Alliance Cummins Inc. Seymour High School Jennings County High School Greater Clark County Schools New Albany-Floyd County Consolidated School Corporation Batesville High School Shelbyville Central Schools Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Ivy Tech Community College Indiana University Bloomington Purdue University Hanover College University of Evansville Trine University Valparaiso University Anderson University Indiana Institute of Technology Aptiv Franklin College Hillenbrand Indianapolis Business Journal State of Indiana Indiana Department of Workforce Development

Engineering Is More Than Just Numbers and Theories 📚 Engineering isn't just about calculations and theories - it's about engagement and excitement! 🙌 In our programs, we are turning engineering concepts into thrilling, hands-on experiences, sparking curiosity and passion in our students ❤👧👦 From robotics to real-world problem-solving, we make learning interactive and fun 👀  It's our mission to engage young minds in the fascinating world of engineering! There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing children experience engineering in a different way - as a creative, dynamic field that's about building, exploring, and innovating 💡 Join us on this mission! Our after-school clubs are about to start: https://lnkd.in/g9givMW8 #EngagingEngineering #HandsOnLearning #CreativeSTEM #YoungEngineers #YoungEngineersAustralia #STEM #education #edutainment #childeducation #engineeringforkids #learnandplay #youngengineers #cildcentriceducation #stemlove #afterschoolprogram #afterschoolactivities 

Students in 6th grade Step Into STEM are getting in the holiday spirit by creating animatronic-style dioramas. Applying mechanical and electrical engineering skills, students had to design both movement and lights into their displays, which they programmed using the #Hummingbird kits from BirdBrain Technologies. These displays were created by students at Southeast Middle School and at the LSU Lab school. #LSUSTEMPathways #StepIntoSTEM #STEMisCTE #STEM #STEMEducation #YouBelongInSTEM Note on video captions: Video is playing an upbeat, instrumental version of Jingle Bells but no words are spoken on the video.

The requirement for software engineering majors to complete a minor in a foreign language or cultural studies ensures that these students have a strong foundation in the liberal arts and reflects the College of Charleston's liberal arts identity. From the article: “Hsu notes that the College of Charleston’s rich liberal arts education tradition significantly influences the software engineering degree; all graduates must have a minor in a foreign language or culture studies as a complement to the major. Options include traditional foreign languages as well as international studies or Japanese studies. Not surprisingly, Hsu said many engineering students are choosing to minor in German — a useful language as some of Charleston’s major players in the engineering field, such as Mercedes Benz Vans and Bosch, are headquartered in Germany.” #liberalarts #engineering https://lnkd.in/eqtdZa3K

On National Retro Day, let’s take a delightful trip down memory lane! 🕰️📻🎮 Career and Technical Education (CTE)—once considered a retro path—is now making a cool comeback. 🌟 In the days of yore, CTE was all about hands-on skills, vocational training, and practical knowledge. These were the realms where students honed their craft, learned real-world skills, and prepared for the workforce. 🛠️🔥 Fast forward to today, and CTE is experiencing a renaissance. Here’s why it’s cooler than ever: High Demand: The job market craves skilled professionals. From electricians to graphic designers, CTE programs provide a direct pipeline to fulfilling careers. 💼 Tech Integration: CTE isn’t stuck in the past. It’s embracing cutting-edge technology. Robotics, cybersecurity, 3D printing—you name it! Students get to tinker with the latest gadgets and gear. 🤖💡 Creativity Rules: CTE isn’t just about nuts and bolts. It’s a canvas for creativity. Imagine designing video games, crafting culinary masterpieces, or producing music. The possibilities are endless! 🎮🍳🎵 College, Career, and Military Readiness: CTE celebrates diverse pathways. Apprenticeships, certifications, and associate degrees lead to meaningful careers too. 🌐🔗 So, whether you’re fixing engines, coding apps, or whipping up a soufflé, know that CTE is both retro and ultra-modern. It’s the fusion of old-school wisdom and futuristic flair. 🚀✨ Cheers to all the pathways available to our students, both "retro" and new. 🙌 Keep rocking! —it’s all part of the cool CTE vibe. 🎩🔧👩🔬 P.S. If you find a vintage toolbox, give it a nod of respect! 🛠️👏

As I begin my Sophomore year at The Grainger College of Engineering as a Systems Engineer, I would like to share two opportunities that I am a part of: I am excited to work with the SE 101: Engineering Graphics and Design teaching team as a Lab Assistant. I work with current students to develop skills using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, specifically Fusion 360. I assist with weekly modeling assignments where I emphasize the importance of efficiency in the design process - there are often many ways to model any given design, however it is important to recognize shortcuts and utilize the advanced capabilities' of CAD software; all while keeping 'best practices' in mind to perform the given task most effectively. Proficiency in CAD software can equip students with valuable skills that are of great demand in todays' world of technology advancement. In addition, I have also joined the Physics Teaching Team as a Learning Assistant for Physics 100: Thinking About Physics. This introductory physics course introduces students to the study of physics. As the title suggests, the course develops the critical thinking skills necessary to "think about physics." While physics concepts are generally difficult for many students to grasp, there are many ways to think about and approach problems that will make studying physics more enjoyable and successful. As a Learning Assistant, I work within discussion sections and office hours to share my physics knowledge and help students generate ideas to work though challenging concepts. Oftentimes, just a slight change in students' approaches to physics problems will instantly make them easier to solve. I am excited to assist in the development of students in both courses, gaining and improving valuable interpersonal, professional, and technical skills along the way!

Help your young engineers keep up their skills and stay engaged with a summer program in a subject they love. https://lnkd.in/esdpF4mB #TowerFastners #TowerFatenersEU #SummerCamp #Summer #Engineering #TowerBlog

Help your young engineers keep up their skills and stay engaged with a summer program in a subject they love. https://lnkd.in/esdpF4mB #TowerFastners #TowerFatenersEU #SummerCamp #Summer #Engineering #TowerBlog

Experiential Learning Activity on "IOT-based Systems" in the department of Electronics and Communication Engineering