Written by: Harpreet Mann
As the University of Michigan-Dearborn & Henry Ford College Battery Workforce Challenge team arrived at the elementary school with excitement and anticipation, the team members were greeted by a group of eager fifth-graders, their eyes wide with curiosity.
Our focus for the day was the Battery Workforce Challenge, providing a hands-on activity designed to teach the students about the importance of batteries in everyday life and the potential of battery technology in shaping our future. The team began with a brief presentation about what STEM means and explored the numerous opportunities available for young students to pursue their bright futures.
Next the crew unveiled the planned activity for the day – bristle bots. Here the UM-Dearborn & Henry Ford College BattChallenge team turned everyday toothbrushes into energized racing machines with the use of a simple motor and battery design. The kids were able to learn about positive and negative terminals, and how connecting a wire completes a circuit. They were even able to showcase their creativity by decorating each battery-powered bot uniquely. The BattChallenge team was so happy to see how excited the students were and how eager they were to learn about batteries.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that the team’s impact extended far beyond the technical aspects of the BattChallenge. While the UM-Dearborn & Henry Ford College team did impart knowledge and skills,its crew also infused the event with joy, fun and laughter. Team members encouraged the students to approach the challenge not just as a task to be completed, but as an opportunity to be excited about the endless possibilities that await them in STEM and battery technology.
Throughout the day, the team witnessed moments of discovery and excitement as the students worked together to solve problems and unleash their creativity. But perhaps the most rewarding aspect was the genuine connections team members formed with these young learners,laughing together, celebrating small victories and providing encouragement when needed.
As the event ended, the UM-Dearborn & Henry Ford College BattChallenge team found itself surrounded by high-fives from the studentsand met with smiles serving as a reminder of the impact made. These lasting impressions will stay with the students long after the event is over, igniting a spark of curiosity and passion for STEM that the team hopes will continue to grow.
The BattChallenge crew’s experience at the elementary school reaffirmed its belief in the importance of youth outreach in STEM education. However, to continue making a difference in the lives of young learners, the team needs your support. Whether it’s through funding, volunteerism or simply spreading the word, every contribution counts.
Furthermore, UM-Dearborn & Henry Ford College BattcChallenge team encourages other universities and organizations to follow in its footsteps and organize similar outreach events in their communities. Together, we can inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators, ensuring a brighter future for all.
With your help, the BattChallenge team hopes to empower youth to dream big and reach for the stars. The possibilities are limitless when investing in their potential and you find out firsthand that all it takes is just a spark. Here’s to nurturing the next wave of innovators and dreamers!
