ANN ARBOR—On Aug. 7, the University of Michigan College of Engineering will host more than 120 minority students from grades 8-12 in an engineering extravaganza designed to showcase the variety of possibilities within the engineering field. The event will be held in the atrium of the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Building on the University’s North Campus.

The 1997 Engineering Exposition (EXPO) will feature 25-30 hands-on demonstrations in areas such as virtual reality, solar technology, and intelligent transportation systems. Participants will meet and talk with engineering students and professors to glean firsthand information on the field.

Participating students will be able to ride in vans specially equipped with navigation technology and computer maps that will indicate directions as well as weather and road conditions; view the innovative projects of current engineering students who have designed “new and improved” bicycles and other vehicles; design web pages with the help of U-M engineering students; investigate ways in which engineering dovetails with music and art through the use of computer graphics; view virtual reality demonstrations; and engage in a variety of projects from the various engineering departments.

The EXPO is just one program in the College’s Summer Engineering Academy (SEA). SEA features a progression of engineering preparation and enrichment experiences for students from grade-seven through the first year of college. Students who participate in all seven levels develop competencies in mathematics, engineering concepts, and oral and written communications.

“Our country needs individuals who are conversant with the use and application of technology to solve problems,” said Derrick E. Scott, director of the College’s Minority Engineering Program Office (MEPO) which sponsors SEA. “SEA is designed to pique their interest and enhance their chances for success through exposure, preparation, and encouragement.”

More information:

• College of Engineering
• Summer Engineering Academy
• Minority Engineering Program Office