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February 17-23rd is National Engineers Week® and the Franklin Institute is ready to celebrate. Established by the National Society of Professional Engineers in 1951, National Engineers Week® is a time when educational organizations, corporations, and government agencies across the country highlight the positive influence that engineers have on everyday life. Through various events and programs, these groups strive to inspire youth to pursue engineering and technology career paths. One such national event is Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day on February 21st, which focuses on inspiring girls to pursue STEM careers. The Franklin Institute is recognizing this day on Saturday February 23rd from 10-3pm as part of continual weekend programming to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.
Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day at the Institute will feature hands-on activities and design challenges that explore various fields of engineering, such as mechanical, electrical, chemical, and aerospace. Local female engineers will also be on site to engage with visitors and provide a glimpse into their line of work. The combination of visitor activities and guest educators emphasizes what an engineer is, and why engineering is important.
Several of the activities during this event are test models for use in the new Tech Studio space being developed through a partnership with the international technology company TE Connectivity. This exciting collaboration will result in the expansion of our current Tech Studio, creation of a workshop area within the space, and the addition of engineering design challenges. A team of Franklin Institute employees have been working with TE Connectivity to develop this content based on what their engineers do in the field every day. Visitors can test their problem solving skills with the design challenges, witness 3D printing demonstrations, and find out about upcoming tech workshops. This is a "hands-on, minds-on" exhibit that visitors of all ages will enjoy.
More information about this partnership can be found in the forthcoming Tech Studio public announcement, but keep an eye on the Franklin Institute website and social media accounts over the next few months as the new exhibit unfolds. We hope to see you at the opening in May!
About the author
Max Santangelo
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Exhibit Development Specialist
Max serves as an advocate for the Franklin Institute’s audience. He researches the content for exhibitions and live science shows. As part of the Experiences and Exhibitions team, he works alongside designers and educators to create an engaging visitor experience around the Institute.