The ASCE Central Ohio Section welcomed over 140 students in grades K-8 at the STEM Expo on February 22, 2014.  The students explored hands-on activities and exhibits in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math fields sponsored by local firms, professional societies, and educational departments.

Carpenter Marty Transportation was proud to participate in the event.  Our booth offered students and their parents the opportunity to build Straw Towers.  Matt Malich, one of our project engineers, was there to lead the students in this activity.  “It was nice trying to give the students pointers and see what they were coming up with on their own.”  Each student was given 25 straws and 3.5 feet of tape.  They could cut, bend, and do anything they wanted to with the straws.  The goal was to construct the tallest tower capable of standing on its own.

Carpenter Marty Transportation also had Kristine Connolly, project engineer, volunteering at the WTS Columbus booth.  Their activity involved making “asphalt” cookies.   The students were taught how asphalt is made and how important it is to our daily lives.  “The ultimate goal being to get the students interested in transportation as a potential career.  I have to admit, the smell of melted chocolate was irresistible.  We lured the students in and made learning fun.”

It was a great experience all around.  Carpenter Marty Transportation is looking forward to participating in next year’s event.  We are already coming up with a new and exciting challenge for the students.