When it comes to science, statistics show student interest begins to fade once they hit middle school. In an effort to reverse that trend, Pickering Associates hosted Chemical Engineering Day at Hamilton Middle School on Thursday with the entire sixth grade. Patrick Flora, a Chemical Engineer with Pickering Associates, spoke with students and showed them how chemical engineering plays a part in everyone’s life every single day.
“Chemical engineers are responsible for things we see, interact with, and touch every day,” Flora explained to the students. “The things you’re learning in class right now are the foundations of the science chemical engineers are using in labs across the world. The hard work and focus you put into your science and math classes now – are the keys to your future.”
Students watched demonstrations like piercing a balloon with a skewer, setting money on fire, and the chemical reaction between Magnesium ribbon and vinegar. In the final part of the day, students mixed ingredients and made ‘silly putty’ from glue, borax, and water.
“Being a ‘Partner in Education’ with Hamilton presents us with the opportunity to inspire students and hopefully open their minds to career paths they may not have considered,” says Erin Iafelice-McCullough, sales and marketing director at Pickering Associates. “Careers in S.T.E.M. are the future of the job market and we want all students to be encouraged to engage actively in their S.T.E.M related courses.”
