From space robotics to Formula One race cars, approximately 40 students from King Intermediate School in Kāneʻohe, experienced a day of hands-on STEM learning at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Engineering on November 21.
“Experiences like this can spark a lifelong interest in science and engineering at exactly the age when students are beginning to explore career paths,” said College of Engineering Dean Brennon Morioka. “By connecting with local middle school students, we’re building a local pipeline of future engineers who can one day use their skills to benefit Hawaiʻi and beyond.”
The middle school students participated in engineering presentations and toured specialized laboratory facilities, including the Robotic Space Exploration laboratory, where students learned about robots for space applications, and the machine shop, where they observed advanced manufacturing equipment. The Society of Automotive Engineers demonstrated practical applications of engineering principles through automotive design projects.
“I think engineering is really cool, like it all seems so fun to do but also so interesting to learn about,” said Lillyana Pangan, a King Intermediate 7th grader. “I really thought that some of the machines they use were awesome and I kinda want to become an engineer.”
Gabrielle Lestino, a King Intermediate 8th grader added, “I’m excited because I get to learn about these new things here about building and science.”
Students from UH Mānoa’s College of Engineering also traveled to King Intermediate in October to meet with the students. It was one of more than a dozen events with schools just in the fall 2024 semester, which included visits with Kaimukī Middle, Leilehua High, Kaiser High, Kanoelani Elementary, Liholiho Elementary, Kailua High, Radford High and Waipahu Intermediate.
These events are part of the College of Engineering’s ongoing efforts to increase STEM engagement among students from underrepresented backgrounds in Hawaiʻi. The program aims to create pathways for local students to pursue engineering education and careers.
“It’s really important to want the younger generation to be excited to become engineers,” said Chloe Sabado, a UH Mānoa senior in electrical engineering and an engineering student ambassador. “I think to be able to convince them and show them that engineering has so many applications and we’re actually able to help people as well, I think it’s just very fulfilling to see that they would want to pursue it later on.”
