IGNITE Field Trip at Kymeta

On April 28, students from Woodmont K-8 participated in an inspiring IGNITE Field Trip to Kymeta Corporation, where they explored how STEM careers connect to real-world problem-solving and communication technology.

Led by Lilac Muller and supported by an incredible team of volunteers, including Kim Sherrell, Nissa van Meter, Sumee Verma, Brenna Denys, Laura Pulido-Mancera, Brenda Kuhns, Kelly Faherty, Jackie Fisher, and Tammy Swenson, the day combined hands-on teamwork, facility tours, and conversations with women working in STEM careers.

One of the highlights of the day was an interactive emergency response challenge. Students worked in teams to respond to different disaster scenarios such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and mudslides, while solving the problem of communicating without cell phone service. Using communication technologies similar to those developed at Kymeta, each team created and presented a response plan that demonstrated creativity, collaboration, and engineering thinking.

Students also toured the workplace and were fascinated by the technology they encountered, including real robots, big antennas, test chambers, and the company’s silent anechoic chamber. Many commented on how modern and calm the workplace environment felt, and several students left newly interested in careers related to astronomy, robotics, engineering, and mechanical systems.

Throughout the visit, students asked thoughtful questions such as how to become an engineer, how the volunteers chose their careers, what support systems helped them succeed, how they paid for school, and how to build confidence. They also wanted to know about summer camps, internships, hobbies outside of work, and the challenges the volunteers faced when they were younger.

The Panelists and volunteers shared powerful advice with students: ask questions, ask for help, seek mentors, and never underestimate yourself. They emphasized that failure is part of growth, learning challenges do not define a person’s potential, and STEM careers can incorporate creativity, art, and many different passions. Students also heard about the importance of work-life balance, collaboration, resilience, and trying new things even when they seem intimidating.

Educators noted how impactful it was for students to interact with a diverse group of women in STEM and to participate in meaningful small-group discussions and activities. The experience gave students not only exposure to cutting-edge technology, but also the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the people building it.