Nearly 100 children, grades K-6, introduced to world of STEM at GRAND Engineering Showcase

Nearly 100 students in grades K-6 were given the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the world of engineering at the college’s annual GRAND Engineering Showcase on Oct. 10.

Aimed at elementary students, the event introduced young children to various engineering concepts and problems to spark their interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Students were able to explore how engineers are solving the Grand Engineering Challenges through hands-on demonstrations. Booths were set up around the Brown-Kopel grand hall with faculty, staff and students leading interactive exhibits and experiments.

Based on the Greatest Engineering Achievements of the 20^th century, some of the topics included: providing access to clean water, urban infrastructure, virtual reality, solar energy, cybersecurity and healthcare informatics.

The event featured a Halloween theme, with attendees and volunteers being encouraged to dress up in costumes.

The GRAND Engineering Showcase is hosted every fall, with Auburn Engineering's Office of Recruitment, Outreach and Scholarship coordinating. Jessica Taylor, director of recruiting and scholarships, and Allyson Kicklighter, K-12 outreach admin, led the initiative this year.

“The event received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback, leaving students and parents eager to learn more about the field of engineering. With a successful event achieved, our team will continue to develop new demonstrations and activities to showcase in 2024,” Kicklighter said.

This is one of many events that the Office of Recruitment, Outreach, and Scholarship hosts every year. Many of their outreach efforts focus on K-12 students to drive their interest in engineering and STEM careers.

“The GRAND Engineering showcase is one of my favorite events we host throughout the year. This event would not be possible without the hard work of our team, engineering faculty and students, and the Cupola Engineering Ambassadors. I am thankful to work alongside individuals who understand the importance of inspiring the next generation of future Auburn engineers through outreach programming like GRAND,” Taylor said.