NASHUA – Members of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua kept their thinking caps on this summer as they entered the wonderful world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM). Over the course of a 7-week summer STEAM program, BAE Systems volunteers led kids ages 8-12 through multiple science experiments ranging from electromagnetics to tower and bridge building, to creating circuit boards. Through these hands-on activities, the participants learned concepts in engineering, science, and technology. This pilot program was part of an overall plan for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua to develop a comprehensive STEAM program for all members ages 5-18.

The volunteers peaked the members’ interest right at the outset of the program with insight into BAE Systems’ development of global innovations – from reducing emissions in the City of Lights to powering the Mars Rover to protecting the F-35 fighter jet.

They then introduced themselves by sharing some of their own favorite classes in school, how they got involved in the STEAM field, and what education and training they completed to do their jobs at BAE Systems. The kids followed up with questions as they were introduced to projects and activities that could help build a foundation for any of the budding scientists, engineers, or technicians looking to one day work at a place like BAE Systems.

A few of the STEAM activities used specialized equipment such as one involving circuit boards, but most of the projects could be completed using every day household items. The construction of bridges, for example, only required a few sheets of copy and construction paper, scissors, a role of masking tape or painter’s tape to mark the ground, scotch tape, measuring tape to measure the distance, and pen and paper to record the distances.

The program offered something new and different for all the kids involved whether they were interested in computers, building and construction, or simply learning about how things work such as why objects either sink or float.

“I really enjoyed bridge building and the activity sink or float,” said Club member Joi. “It was fun to work with the volunteers”

Another STEAM program participant Ryan said, “I loved all the activities and would love to learn more about how to code and communicate with computers.”

“BAE Systems has supported the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Nashua through funding and volunteerism for many years,” said Elizabeth Harrington, Head of Community Investment at BAE Systems. “We were thrilled to engage our employees in developing hands-on STEM activities this summer inspiring the Club members to be tomorrow’s science and technology leaders and innovators.”

Through this dynamic partnership, Club kids have access to new mentors and role models while volunteers share their expertise through the interactive and educational activities. The end goal is to help Club members, ages 5-18, build the skills they will need to be successful adults.

“A huge thank you to all the BAE Systems’ employees who made this program a success,” said Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua CEO Craig Fitzgerald. “You help inspire our members to go after their goals, whether it’s to become a scientist, engineer, programmer, or one of the many other professions and opportunities available to them.”

Newsletter