IDAHO — Idaho Governor Brad Little declared March STEM Matters Month to highlight the importance of science, technology, engineering and math.
Various STEM events will be held throughout the month to raise awareness of the need for a STEM-literate workforce.
“The importance of STEM education in today’s technology- and knowledge-based economy cannot be overstated,” Gov. Little said. “From logging to computer science, mining to healthcare, or teaching to business, the skills that STEM education fosters will propel Idaho students into high-paying, meaningful careers.”
Here’s a list of events held throughout March:
Reach for the Stars Gala Celebration: The Children’s Museum of Idaho in Meridian, sponsored by CapEd, will host the grand opening of a new expansion, including a Children’s Planetarium. The event will occur on March 8 from 7 to 10 p.m. at 790 South Progress Avenue.Aerospace Day: On March 13, students from Riverside Elementary School will explore the wonders of flight and space exploration. Students can build rockets and learn about the stars and planets. GREAT Day: On March 14, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories will host the Getting Ready for Engineering and Technology (GREAT) Day. This event is held every spring for 8th graders interested in STEM and provides students with an opportunity to engage with engineering principles.The FIRST Idaho FRC Regional Robotics Competition will be held from March 21 to 23. “Forty teams from Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, California, Montana, Mexico and Canada will pit their robots against each other at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa. Friday and Saturday offer the best viewing, with opening ceremonies beginning at 8:30 a.m. and matches from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Parking and entry are free.” Hackfort: From March 21 to 23, the Treefort Music Fest will celebrate all things tech. The festival will include 40 speakers, 15 workshops, 12 speaking sessions and ten panel discussions.
Governor Little urges Idahoans to volunteer at a school or nonprofit, conduct STEM events at home or support local STEM organizations.
“STEM learning helps students develop creative thinking, problem solving, innovation, and collaboration skills,” STEM Action Center executive director, Caty Solace, said. “These durable skills are in high demand by Idaho employers that want to solve problems in our communities and beyond.”
