On April 23, 2024, IGNITE Worldwide hosted an Electric Vehicles Workshop at Adelaide Elementary School, attended by 19 4th and 5th grade students. This event, a collaboration with Rivian’s Technical Trades Program, featured hands-on activities and an engaging panel discussion.
The event created an atmosphere of curiosity and learning. Rivian Volunteers Nollan Worrell, Lead Technical Trades Automotive Instructor, and Natalie Flores, Lead Technical Trades Program Manager, drove an actual electric vehicle to the school, sparking excitement right from the start! The students embarked on an ‘SUV Scavenger Hunt,’ exploring every part of the vehicle. This interactive activity was a major hit, with the students delighting in the hands-on experience of discovering the features of the Rivian electric SUV.
Following the activity, the students moved into the classroom, where they used their creativity and designed their own personalized Rivian vehicles. They enjoyed the chance to blend their newfound technical knowledge with imagination!
The day’s activities didn’t end there. The event transitioned into the panel discussion, where the students had the opportunity to engage with Panelists Natalie Flores and Angie Walley, Field Service Manager. Students asked questions, ranging from the Panelists’ hobbies and educational backgrounds to their job duties and work experiences. Notably, the students were curious about career paths, asking questions like, “How did you get into your career?” and “What advice would you give to someone interviewing for their first job?” The Panelists offered invaluable advice, emphasizing the importance of gaining STEM skills, finding joy in one’s work, and building confidence through hard work and dedication.
One standout piece of advice was for the students to focus on what they enjoy doing rather than merely chasing a specific job title. This perspective resonated with the students, reinforcing the idea that passion and hard work are key to a fulfilling career. The interactive format of the event, combining physical activities like the vehicle exploration and scavenger hunt with creative tasks and an open Q&A session, proved to be crucial in keeping the students engaged and inspired.
We extend our thanks to our wonderful Volunteers, Nollan Worrell, Natalie Flores, and Angie Walley. Your expertise and enthusiasm truly inspired the students! Additionally, a special thank you to Educator Nina Meyer, for her support and encouragement of IGNITE Students.
After attending this event:
92%
of students are interested in STEM
79%
of students know more about STEM career choices and the benefits of working in a STEM field
76%
of students feel more confident in pursuing STEM
88%
of students gained perspective and feel more hopeful about the future
Here’s what the students thought of the event:
“Today’s event inspired me to learn more about engineering. I also remembered when I took apart a toy but couldn’t put it back together again. My favorite part of the event was when we did the scavenger hunt in the car. I also remembered when I tried to take the cover off the phone, but I accidentally took the battery off too! I got it back on.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today inspired me by showing me women in a mainly male industry. My favorite thing was going into the trunk.” – 4th Grade IGNITE Student
“Now I know that there are not only men in STEM but women too.” – 4th Grade IGNITE Student
“When I went to see the car, it inspired me to save up and buy it when I’m older!” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event inspired me to try something related to STEM. My favorite thing was the cool Rivian car.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because it got me to keep trying and never give up. My favorite things were getting snacks and going in the car.” – 4th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event made me want to work in STEM fields. I liked asking questions and candy.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event was so inspiring that I would like to learn more about STEM. I liked the food and the car was awesome!” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to see what I want to be when I’m older. I liked the car and the people.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today was really inspiring. I liked seeing the car and learning more about Rivian.” – 4th Grade IGNITE Student
About Rivian:
Rivian is an American automotive manufacturer that develops and builds category-defining electric vehicles and accessories. The company creates innovative and technologically advanced products that are designed to excel at work and play with the goal of accelerating the global transition to zero-emission transportation and energy. Rivian vehicles are built in the United States and are sold directly to consumer and commercial customers. The company provides a full suite of services that address the entire lifecycle of the vehicle and stay true to its mission to keep the world adventurous forever. Whether taking families on new adventures or electrifying fleets at scale, Rivian vehicles all share a common goal — preserving the natural world for generations to come. Learn more about the company, products, and careers at www.rivian.com.
About IGNITE Program Workshop Events:
In-Person Workshops are held at the students’ school with a group of company volunteers. These volunteers lead students through a hands-on STEM experience in small groups and then students in an IGNITE Panel and Q&A discussion.
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 www.igniteworldwide.org.
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