Hands on learning: KDOT, Washburn University teach teens about STEM opportunities

Topeka-area middle schoolers attended KDOT’s STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Camp at Washburn University last month, thanks to the efforts of the Office of Civil Rights Compliance. The University hosted two weeklong residential camps in July with 14 students participating each week.

The camps gave students opportunities to learn more about science in transportation through interactive projects, activities and fieldtrips. Campers filled their days building and racing solar cars, designing bubble wands in CAD for 3D printing, programming and coding robots; as well as building and launching their own drones and rockets. 

Students also explored a few KDOT careers. Popsicle stick bridges were built and tested for strength with staff from Structures and Geotechnical Services; hands got dirty when students formed small concrete structures during a Materials & Research Lab tour; and mini excavators and skid steers were test driven at Washburn Tech’s campus. Deputy Secretary Lindsey Douglas and State Transportation Engineer Burt Morey spoke to the campers at the weeks’ closing Showcase exhibition.

 “As much I hope this sparked their interest in the transportation field, a new and non-traditional field for so many, I am more excited about the opportunities the camp presented, the exposure students received to something new and different, and the impact it made on their lives- both seen and unseen,” said Doria Watson, Civil Rights Compliance Administrator.

This was the fourth STEM Camp in five years KDOT has sponsored. COVID-19 forced the cancellation of 2020’s camp, and it brought new rules and guidelines to staff and participants to follow for this year’s event.

Civil Rights Compliance administers the STEM Camp through funds from FHWA’s National Summer Transportation Institute (NSTI) Program to help promote career and educational opportunities to disadvantaged and at-risk middle and high school students.

Washburn University created a YouTube video with additional photos. You can view them here:  and here.

 

 

iBuild Showcase demonstrates industry careers

Middle school students learn how to set up portable work zone signage and how they can help travelers navigate through road construction si

More than 1,000 middle school and high school students in the Kansas City Metropolitan area had the opportunity to meet with transportation industry professionals and learn about various construction industry careers at the iBuild Showcase that was took place at Bartle Hall in Kansas City on Thursday, May 4. 

High school students had the opportunity to climb inside KDOT vehicles and see how they operate from the inside.

KDOT crew members shared what it is like to work for the agency, what they see on a daily basis in work zones, and how to operate the various equipment and vehicles. 

The students learned how the dump truck and attenuator works as well as how the hopper and plow can be used in the event of a snow storm.  Staff allowed the students to see what they see from the driver’s seat and demonstrated how to keep the public informed with lights and portable signage.    

High school students had the opportunity to climb inside KDOT vehicles and see how they operate from the inside.

Students also learned ways to stay safe and keep others safe while on the road, including  driving without distractions, slowing down in work zones, and giving KDOT crews the space they need to work.. Some students even commented on ways that they could take that safety messaging home to their parents. 

Students learned important work zone safety messaging through a trivia game at the iBuild Showcase. 

Other construction interactive programs, such as forklifts, 3-D printers, various construction materials and augmented reality programs were also on display for exploration. 

Chinese Delegation visits KDOT

A Chinese Delegation visits with KDOT Executive staff in an effort to learn and exchange information about transportation. 

Sharing knowledge helps improve transportation around the world. The KDOT executive staff met with a government delegation from China on Thursday. KDOT was able to share and exchange information relating to how right of way is purchased. The delegates were also interested in learning about Kansas airports. The Executive Staff members explained how the agency has different divisions and roles that help keep Kansas transportation moving.