Outreach Committee
SWE Outreach Committee provides outreach programs to K-12 grades, focusing on Engineering, Math, and Science activities. Events include E-WEEK experiments at Lakeview museum, ZOOM science experiments with local schools, and Girls Scout Badge Days. We are always looking for volunteers.
Outreach Committee Schedule for FY06/07:
- February - E-Week (February 18-24, 2007) activities at Lakeview Museum.
- March - Girl Scout Badge Day
- May - Explore More Days at Dunlap Grade School
- June - Madame Currie Day at Whittier School
- Loucks - Edison Middle School outreach - Date TBA
Each of these activities involves doing pre-prepared engineering experiments with the students. We plan on meeting a week before the event to organize all the necessary materials and run through the experiment. Please look for further details closer to the events.
Central Illinois SWE members are also available for outreach to schools, Girl and Boy Scout groups and other community organizations based on availability and discipline represented.
In early 2006, SWE initiated a new program called "Wow! That's Engineering?" Through these outreach events in cities across the US, SWE created an experience for middle and high school girls where they had the opportunity to meet female engineers and technicians and hear first hand about these exciting career paths. These female engineers and technologists gave interactive demonstrations and the girls were able to experience the creativity and innovation that goes on in the field of engineering.
In 2007, the Central Illinois Section would like to initiate a version of this program in partnership with area schools.
If you are interested in any of our upcoming events or programs, please contact a member of the Career Guidance Committee.
Volunteer Because:
- I can encourage students to explore Engineering, Science, and Math as a career!
- I love inventing new ideas to show kids what engineers do, such as Engineering Candy, Electromagnetic Fishing, and Marshmallow Catapults.
- I feel inspired when a student turns to her parents and say’s “Can I try that at home?”
Try Some of These Fun Experiments
| Hot/Cold Pack | Silly Putty | Electricity |
| Bouyancy | Nutty Observation | Chemical Reactions |
| Engineering Candy | Poppers | Hole in One |
| Seven Simple Machines | Flinker | Egg Bungee Jump |
| Gum Drop Dome | Hoop Glider | Keep-a-Cube |
| Paper Tower | Polishing Pennies | Puff Mobile |