KIHEI - Applying high tech software to real world issues was the focus of the second annual Industry Day held on September 30th. Over 100 Project EAST students and school facilitators from Maui and Molokai listened and learned from industry professionals from five technology-related companies.
The students saw firsthand how the software programs they were currently using in their labs --computer-aided design (CAD), geographic information systems (GIS), 3D imaging and webpage graphics -- applied to the real world.
Representatives from Akimeka, Pacific Disaster Center, Sae Design, 3D Innovations and the Maui Economic Development Board's Women in Technology presented examples of their work and discussed career preparation and options. Each also gave a little background on his or her career path.
EAST teams also had a chance to showcase individual lab projects using their technology skills to benefit the community. Topics included recycling, green energy, anti-bullying videos and mapping ancient Hawaiian land/sites among others.
A hands-on GPS treasure hunt added a little fun and variety to the day, giving students the opportunity to use GPS units to find "hidden treasures."
Many of the participants found they were unaware of the multitude of job possibilities existing in their own backyard and left with a greater appreciation of the exciting applications of the different types of software.
In Hawaii, EAST is supported by the County of Maui and Women in Technology, a statewide initiative of the Maui Economic Development Board. MEDB Project Manager Isla Young credits the tech companies at MRTC and the County's business community for their continued STEM motivation and support in Maui County schools.
"The industry's willingness to step up to the plate and get behind our educational initiatives have made a huge difference in advancing STEM on Maui," Young said. "Ultimately, the goal is to educate, train and employ a strong homegrown workforce instead of having to import talent to fill the gaps."
Project EAST is a project-based, service-learning program that prepares students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed in the 21st century workplace.
MEDB's Women in Technology is funded in part by the U.S. Department's of Labor, Agriculture, and Education as a workforce development project to encourage women, girls, and underrepresented minorities into science, technology, engineering and math careers.
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