The WashingtonExec STEM Symposium is a chance for students and parents alike to engage in a wide range of STEM-related activities, and the Siemens Government Technology (SGT) showcase was no different. From exploring magnetism and electromagnets to experimenting with ways to clean up a simulated oil spill, symposium attendees got a glimpse into how SGT helps its Federal customers meet many of its greatest challenges, in such issues as energy, infrastructure, automation and marine platforms.
“We think today’s STEM Symposium is a great opportunity to engage with young people and their parents on the skills needed to be successful in the future,” said Barbara Humpton, SGT’s President and CEO. “The most challenging jobs and those with the best wages increasingly require a background in STEM-related fields. Today’s event is a great opportunity to make our young people aware of how they can prepare themselves for the exciting career paths of tomorrow.”
Sponsoring the WashingtonExec STEM Symposium is just one way SGT and its parent company Siemens are investing in the future of the American workforce. On Wednesday, Siemens USA CEO Judy Marks testified before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Technology on the future of American industry and manufacturing. “Advanced manufacturing is core to our nation’s strengths in research and development, in digital technologies, and in software development,” she said. “It enables the U.S. to focus on producing high-value goods that support high-paying jobs. The skill requirements, however, have become much more rigorous, and Siemens has both a business need and a responsibility to help workers acquire these new, advanced skills.”
Siemens has brought the German-style apprenticeship training model to the U.S., and is working with the U.S. Department of Labor to expand the model to other programs and companies. Siemens is partnering with local colleges to develop the high-skilled workers the industry needs. But it’s important not to start getting into STEM fields too late.
One of SGT’s goals in sponsoring the STEM Symposium was to help kids realize that the world of STEM is already around them, said Humpton. They are using technology every day at home, at school and with their friends.
“Children are never too young to learn how exciting developments in science and technology are not only impacting their own lives, but also the world around them,” she said. “When events like these are so well-attended, it bodes well for our country’s task to ensure our children build better lives, as well as strengthen our economy.”
Over 130 fun hands-on STEM activities that are aligned to national teaching standards are available at www.siemensstemday.com for use by educators, parents and others who would like to ignite an interest in STEM among K-12 students.
Related: K-12 STEM Symposium Video: Siemens Government Technologies
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