A USC youth program launched an engineering lab to offer kids in South Los Angeles a path to STEM careers.
At the Howmet Material Science and Engineering Lab, which is part of the SoLa Foundation, the mission is to provide “new opportunities for teaching STEM subjects, manufacturing methods, trade skills and more through year-round daytime and afterschool programs,” according to its website.
Guadalupe Morales with the SoLa Foundation told KNX News’ Nataly Tavidian the goal is to expose students in South L.A. to science and technology at no cost.
“This is setting up kids to really be not only digital learners and using digital technology, but also to be entrepreneurs,” she said.
Students will also learn from USC lecturers like Kia McCormick at the lab.
“I know just personally for me, I didn't start getting into this stuff until college. So having students high school and younger middle school in my elementary school already dive into, it is really special,” she said. “I feel like they're already just like miles ahead. It's really cool to see all the ideas that they have.”
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Kiani Hodo, a 15-year-old high school student from Westchester, said the lab is giving her a peek into her future.
“I guess this is a way to help more people of color get involved so it can have a more diverse work field [in the] next generation,” she said.
There is also a fellowship being offered. The Product Innovation & Material Science Fellowship offers an 18-week program for students in 11th and 12th grade where they can “learn to design, prototype, and solve real-world problems through tools like laser cutting, CNC machines, 3D printing, sewing, and electronics.”
After completing the program, students will get a stipend to continue their projects.
To apply for the fellowship, click here.
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