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The Success of IPC’s STEM Student Outreach Program
February 21, 2020 | Charlene Gunter du Plessis, IPC Education FoundationEstimated reading time: 1 minute
The IPC Education Foundation (IPCEF) hosted its STEM Student Outreach Event on February 6 at IPC APEX EXPO in San Diego. Nine local high schools attended bringing 193 students and 30 educators from Mission Hills High School, Morse High School, North County Trade Tech High School, Saint Marcos High School, E3 Civic High School, Point Loma High School, Otay Ranch High School, Mount Miguel High School, Otay Ranch High School—Girls in STEM.
Twice as many students were able to participate this year, and each participating high school received a $1,000 grant and soldering station to enhance STEM-related learning at their school. The student participation and awards were made possible through the generous support of our event sponsors: Foxconn Interconnect Industries, Nordson, Panasonic, TTM Technologies, Weller Apex Tools, and I-Connect007. We are truly grateful for their support and participation in the day’s activities.
The day was packed with several hands-on technical activities, career exploration, and industry engagement. The students participated in educational tracks with a focus on soldering, PCB design, and building circuits with breadboards. The IPC Education Foundation believes that these kinds of activities raise awareness of the skills needed and opportunities available in the electronics manufacturing industry.
Perhaps even more impactful, the students were able to engage with industry professionals during the career panel discussion and tour of the IPC APEX EXPO show floor. The career panel discussion was moderated by Dr. John Mitchell, IPC president and CEO. Several students asked questions to a diverse group of industry professionals who provided answers, often prompting other professionals in the room to share their experiences.
To read this entire article, which appeared in the I-Connect007 publication Show & Tell Magazine, click here.
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