On November 18, 2025, IGNITE Students from Paschal Sherman Indian School spent the day at Chelan County Public Utility District for an exciting hands-on field trip that brought hydroelectric power to life. Guided by Kristin Lodge, James Webber, and Megan Carey, the students explored how dams generate electricity and learned about the many moving parts that keep a public utility running safely and sustainably.
During the visit, students participated in an interactive activity where they acted out the roles of a mountain, a dam, and flowing water—turning a complex process into something they could see, feel, and laugh about together. Educators shared that this physical, visual approach made the science “click,” helping students clearly understand how moving water becomes electricity. Throughout the tour, students stayed curious, asking questions about how water moves turbines, why mountains matter for electricity, and what happens to fish during migration. Tour guides also explained safety features around the dam, including barriers designed to protect birds and critical procedures followed inside the powerhouse. The combination of movement, storytelling, and real-world engineering gave students a memorable look at renewable energy and the people who keep it running.
“It inspired me by making me think about pursuing something in STEM. My favorite thing I’ve learned today was the process of how everything works.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“There was so much to see. I love going to new places. It was nice learning about STEM careers. My favorite part was learning about the different careers. And seeing/learning about the dam.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“I feel inspired after learning about the generator and about how the fish travel through the tubes. My favorite thing today was when they told me that once a month scuba divers come and clean the tanks.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
82%
INTERESTED IN STEM
57%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
52%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
66%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“It inspired me because of some of the benefits. It helps me understand.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today inspired me about engineering. My favorite thing I learned today is how the dam gets controlled by energy.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was fun. I like STEM and science. My favorite things I learned today were about the fish ladder and power house.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Kristin Lodge
- James Webber
- Megan Carey
- Brigida Ruis
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.