JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska - In recognition of National Engineers Week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Alaska District is bringing its youth to work Feb. 14 for a day of activities aimed at instilling a passion for science, technology, engineering and math.
Activities planned provide photo and video opportunities. Details are listed below.
WHO: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Alaska District
WHAT: “Bring Your Youth To Work Day” with employee family members ages 9-17 invited to see a sampling of work that takes place in the Alaska District. A total of 29 youth are registered. Groups are divided by age bracket will rotate through activity stations.
Morning events from 8:30-11:30 a.m.
· Wetlands and soils - The Regulatory Division, which is responsible for wetlands permitting, will introduce the younger groups to general wetland concepts, how wetlands function, and why they are important to humans and animals. Young participants will be able to look and touch a small display of mounts and furs of animals and insects that live in wetlands. They will also have a hands-on experience molding clay and sand to make a miniature wetland and learn how soils influence the formation of wetlands.
· Cost engineering - The youth will build bridges using toothpicks, gum drops and mini marshmallows. They will see which ones hold the most, look the best and then estimate the actual cost. Each of the building materials will have a different cost associated with it.
· Hydrology - The Hydraulics and Hydrology Section will demonstrate a water wave machine and discuss breakwaters.
· Environmental engineering - Youth will see how fluorescence can be seen in various objects by using a black light. Engineers use this technology to identify toxic substances in the ground, such as fuel.
· Computer-generated projects – Computer-aided design, geographic information systems and 3D modeling will be demonstrated at this station.
Afternoon event from 1-2:45 p.m.
· LEGO robotics – The Girl Scouts of Alaska team called the “Electronically Overdressed Survivors” will put on a demonstration. This state champion team is coached by a Corps employee.
WHEN: Friday Feb. 14 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and afternoon event from 1-2:45 p.m.
WHERE: District headquarters, Bldg. 2204 on JBER-Elmendorf
WHY: The Army Corps of Engineers is committed to promoting careers involving science, technology, engineering and math.
NOTE: We are located on a military installation and require registration in-processing for all visitors at the Boniface Gate Visitor Control Center. All media will need a valid state or federally-issued identification card. Please call 753-2721, 753-2520 or 382-1297 to coordinate base access if you plan on covering this event.
# # #