Engaging in STEM outreach is one of the most impactful ways we can contribute to the profession’s growth and ensure that the next generation is equipped to tackle the engineering challenges of tomorrow. Structural engineers bring a unique perspective to STEM outreach. Our work is a tangible demonstration of how scientific principles are applied to create safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing structures. By sharing our experiences and knowledge, we can demystify the complexities of engineering and spark curiosity in young minds.
Why Get Involved?
-
Inspire Future Engineers: Early exposure to STEM can ignite a lifelong passion. By showing students the real-world applications of math and science, we can help them see the value in pursuing these fields.
-
Diversity and Inclusion: STEM fields, including structural engineering, benefit from diverse perspectives. Outreach efforts can encourage students from underrepresented backgrounds to consider careers in engineering.
-
Community Impact: Engaging with students fosters a connection between engineers and their local communities. This not only enhances the public perception of our profession but also builds a pipeline of future talent.
How to Get Involved in STEM Outreach
If you’re interested in inspiring the next generation of structural engineers, there are several ways to get involved:
1. Participate in School Events
-
Offer to speak at career days or STEM fairs. Sharing your journey and discussing the projects you work on can provide students with a real-world context for their studies.
-
Collaborate with teachers to develop hands-on activities that demonstrate engineering concepts. For example, you could guide students through building a simple bridge model or conducting a load-bearing experiment.
2. Mentorship Programs
-
Join or establish a mentorship program that pairs professionals with students. This could be through formal programs like those offered by engineering societies or informal arrangements within your community.
-
Mentors can provide guidance on everything from academic choices to career planning, offering invaluable insights that help students navigate their paths in STEM.
3. Engage in Youth Organizations
-
Organizations like Scouts, 4-H, and FIRST Robotics frequently seek professionals to assist with STEM-related activities. Volunteering with these groups allows you to reach students in a fun and supportive environment.
-
Consider partnering with local community centers or libraries to host engineering workshops or presentations.
4. Host Field Trips or Office Visits
-
Invite students to visit your workplace. A tour of an engineering office or construction site can be an eye-opening experience for students, showing them the day-to-day realities of the profession.
-
Demonstrate the tools and software engineers use. For example, let students try their hand at structural analysis software or take part in a design challenge.
RISA’s Example of STEM Outreach
At RISA, we partners with organizations such as United Way OC through the Youth Career Connections program to introduce students to structural engineering and software development.
Conclusion
STEM outreach is more than just a way to give back—it’s an investment in the future of our profession. By engaging with young students, structural engineers can play a pivotal role in shaping the engineers of tomorrow. Whether through mentorship, school events, or partnerships like RISA’s collaboration with United Way OC, every effort counts. Let’s inspire the next generation to build a better world, one student at a time.