News Release
For Immediate Release
Contact: Joe Polinski
(803) 981-7161

Workshop to Introduce Engineering to Middle School Girls

February 26, 2009

ROCK HILL—On Saturday, February 28, York Technical College will once again host a one-day workshop designed to introduce girls to the many opportunities available in engineering. "Introducing Girls to Engineering" will demonstrate to 6th through 9th grade girls that engineering can be a fun and exciting career choice. The day, which begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m., will also include adult activities for parents interested in staying to learn more about engineering.

The young women will explore engineering through a variety of hands-on activities in the college's classrooms and labs, led by women engineers or engineering technologists. The day will focus on the four or five workshops the participants choose. For many of the workshops a "product" will be produced that relates to an engineering or technology career that the girls can take home.

Among the 14 workshops to be offered:

• Roller Coaster
  Students will learn the laws of motion and how engineers use the principles of potential and kinetic energy in designing. The concept of testing and troubleshooting designs will also be touched upon.
• Popsicle Stick Bridges
  Students will construct a bridge composed of trusses and frames and learn how the basic principles of compression and tension (push and pull) that are used in combination to provide strength to a structure.

• Catapults
  By constructing their own catapult the students will learn the science and math that will make the projectile go the furthest. A catapult is also the part of an aircraft carrier that launches airplanes off the deck.

• LED jewelry
  By making their own jewelry, the students will learn how circuits are constructed and the need to pay attention to device orientation.

• Bottle Lamps
  By making their own lamp, the students will learn how electrical circuits work and how they can recycle objects found around the house to make lamps.

Parents will have the opportunity to learn how they can help their daughter in such areas as motivation, financing college, and exploring career opportunities. Guest speakers will be on hand to answer questions.

Registration for this event is now closed. The event, however, is scheduled to be held again next year. Girls in middle and junior high school should start receiving information about next year’s event by mid-November.

For more information, contact Dr. Cree Stout at (803) 981-7029 or cstout@yorktech.com.

York Technical College . 452 S. Anderson Road . Rock Hill, SC 29730