The Ohio Aerospace Institute and the Ohio Space Grant Consortium (OSGC) hosted their second annual OhioX Ohio Tech Day on Friday, September 27, 2024. This statewide event aims to inspire the next generation to explore technology careers in Ohio. This year, participants included seventh and eighth-grade students from Douglas MacArthur and Warner Girls Leadership Academies, both part of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.
OhioX Ohio Tech Day is a STEM-focused event that aims to engage students and educators in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It often features hands-on activities, workshops, and demonstrations designed to inspire interest in STEM fields. The event usually brings together students, teachers, and industry professionals to promote learning and career opportunities in STEM. It’s a great way for participants to explore new technologies, gain practical skills, and network with peers and mentors in the field.
Students had the chance to engage with local college tech challenge teams, such as the Akron Geo-Challenge, Akronauts, Case Western Reserve Rocket Team, and CWRUBotix. These teams showcased exciting items like rockets and robots to spark the interests of middle schoolers. Additionally, students participated in the new VEX IQ robotics game, Rapid Relay Team, during which they used a specially constructed robot to capture, set, and throw a small soccer ball through a target.
Moreover, students took part in an activity called Thwarting Thermal Transfer, during which they planned and designed small blankets aimed at minimizing heat transfer. After creating their blankets, they placed them over a digital thermometer and tested their effectiveness under heat lamps. While awaiting their results, students had the opportunity to virtually meet Jean Wright, a former Aerospace Composite Tech at NASA. Jean and her team of 17 seamstresses or Sew Sisters crafted the thermal blankets for the outer layer of space shuttles. The day concluded with a discussion of the students' results followed by a lively pizza lunch, allowing students and presenters to connect informally.
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About Parallax Advanced Research and the Ohio Aerospace Institute
Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute that tackles global challenges through strategic partnerships with government, industry, and academia. It accelerates innovation, addresses critical global issues, and develops groundbreaking ideas with its partners. With offices in Ohio and Virginia, Parallax aims to deliver new solutions and speed them to market. In 2023, Parallax and the Ohio Aerospace Institute formed a collaborative affiliation to drive innovation and technological advancements in Ohio and for the nation. The Ohio Aerospace Institute plays a pivotal role in advancing the aerospace industry in Ohio and the nation by fostering collaborations between universities, aerospace industries, and government organizations, and managing aerospace research, education, and workforce development projects.