Written by Ralph Gee
This week is National Engineering Week, a time to appreciate those who have made this world a better place.
These “makers” come in all shapes and sizes: Some we call engineers and technologists; others just Mom, Dad, Grandma, or Grandpa. “Maker,” a term we hear more and more in today’s vernacular, describes those who showed us how to pick up a hammer or glue gun and create something productive. These makers inspire us to achieve greater things, to embrace ideas and concepts seemingly out of our reach. So let’s all give thanks to those in our lives who lead us and inspire us.
This week is also a great time to introduce the next generation to a growing and crucial career area: Engineering.
If you know a young person who likes to “tinker” with things or investigate the inner workings of the world around us, use National Engineering Week as an opportunity to encourage him or her to explore this growing career field. Engineering and technology are everywhere. It is vital for our community to make sure our future “makers” are participating in engineering and technology programs available to students in our public schools.
From elementary to high school, Michigan City Area Schools offers a wide repertoire of engineering and technology programs and classes. There are after-school opportunities available to students, as well. Safe Harbor offers robotics programs after school for students of all ages. Ask your school for specifics on how your child can get involved!
Engineering and technology touch our lives every day, in so many ways. Hats off to the “makers” this week – and let’s encourage others to follow in their footsteps.
Ralph Gee teaches Engineering classes at Michigan City High School, and is Coach of the Michigan City Robotics Team.