On December 3, 2024, 12 students from Paschal Sherman Indian School participated in an exciting IGNITE Field Trip to Chelan County PUD, where they explored careers in energy and STEM. The day was led by Kristin Lodge, Visitor Services Manager, with support from Bob Bauer, Education Outreach Coordinator, and Megan Carey, Tour Guide.
Students had the unique opportunity to tour the Rocky Reach Dam, learning firsthand about how electricity is generated and distributed. They also participated in a panel discussion featuring Laine Heikel, Sr. Project Manager, and Megan Brandenburg, Cyber Security Manager, who shared their career journeys and insights into working in STEM fields.
The students were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions about the education and training required for different roles and how long it took the employees to reach their current positions. Panelists emphasized the variety of pathways into STEM careers, highlighting opportunities in trades that require only a few weeks of training or on-the-job experience. They encouraged students to start building relevant skills early, such as drafting and design in art classes, which can lay the foundation for future success in technical fields.
Educator Brigida Ruis reflected on the value of the experience, noting that students were inspired by the practical knowledge they gained about electricity and the job opportunities available in their community. The field trip provided an excellent introduction to the diverse roles at Chelan County PUD and Rocky Reach Dam, leaving students excited about the possibilities of pursuing STEM careers in the future.
“It inspired me to pursue more STEM activities and to feel more comfortable about STEM. My favorite thing was getting to see all the other jobs I can learn about.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event helped me be more confident about my career choices and paths.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me by helping me learn more about STEM. My favorite thing I learned today was about the dam.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It looked really fun to do this kind of job. My favorite thing was the tour.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today has inspired me to want to work in STEM.”
6th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
60%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
63%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
65%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Kristin Lodge
- Bob Bauer
- Megan Carey
- Laine Heikel
- Megan Brandenburg
- Brigida Ruis
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.