On February 26, students from Cascade Middle School and Dimmitt Middle School attended the IGNITE Conference at Bates Technical College, where they explored a variety of STEM and technical career pathways through hands-on workshops and conversations with professionals.
Throughout the day, students rotated through several interactive sessions led by Bates instructors and volunteers. In the IT Specialist workshop, students learned how modem cables are made and practiced assembling their own. During the Engineering session, students explored the design process using SolidWorks, a professional computer-aided design program widely used in engineering fields, and created 3D digital designs such as fidget spinners. In the Cybersecurity workshop, students participated in interactive activities using Google Interland to learn about online safety and digital security. In the Digital Media and Broadcasting session, students stepped into the roles behind a studio production, operating cameras, directing broadcasts, working in the control room, and participating in a game show-style activity. Many students shared that the Broadcasting experience was their favorite and wished they could have spent even more time there.
Students also had the opportunity to hear from a panel of women working in STEM fields, including Sharon Rivera, Christina Azene, Kayla Van Horn, and Olena Volkova. During the discussion, panelists shared their career journeys and answered thoughtful questions from students about their interests when they were in middle school, the classes and activities that helped shape their careers, and advice for pursuing future opportunities.
Panelists encouraged students to stay curious, try new things, and explore a wide range of interests as they grow. They also emphasized the value of persistence, learning from challenges, and even developing skills like speaking more than one language, which can open additional opportunities in many careers.
Through hands-on exploration, real-world tools, and inspiring conversations, students left the conference with a broader understanding of the many exciting paths available in STEM and technical careers.
“It inspired me and made me more hopeful for my future. It also created more ideas for me for the concept of my future. I learned more about STEM, and it helped me a lot. I’m grateful for having this opportunity to learn more.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“I am now interested in something I never considered for myself. I got to see that STEM is more than one thing.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was very fun, and it inspired me and new stuff I didn’t know I could be good at.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me and changed my perspective and made me feel more confident in my future.”
6th Grade IGNITE Student
“This day inspired me by making me interested in STEM. Also, making myself confident in tech.”
6th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
55%
INTERESTED IN STEM
74%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
65%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
69%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“I want to shout out Kristena because her advice was really helpful for me. My favorite thing I learned was what they took in middle school.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today, when we were in engineering class, I learned to be confident, and in the studio class, I learned that I wasn’t as nervous as I thought I was.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“My favorite thing that I learned today was the gaming area because I got to experience being a host for a game.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“My favorite activity was broadcasting. I say this because it was a very fun environment, and the volunteers as well.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“My favorite thing was cybersecurity, and I loved to do it, and I want to do it in the future.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“The volunteers were so nice and were kind and explained what to do, and everyone was so kind.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was really fun, I learned so much knowing that all the cords have to be in a specific order.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“My favorite thing about today was working with the wires, it was unique and could be very beneficial if I ever had to deal with wires.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- David Rich
- Dana McNutt
- Ingrid Smith
- Curt Meyer
- Joseph Kauer
- Ken Witkoe
- Ace Wheeler
- Brian Parker
- Sharon Rivera
- Christina Azene
- Kayla Van Horn
- Olena Volkova
- Devon Powers
- Robert Hayes
- Nadia Counter
- Darwin Paet
- Lauren Tran
- Nancy Trang
- Deborah Currie
- Yaneth Garcia Santos
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.