Mission EDC, SEAD Academy and Texas A&M University partner to host National Science Foundation education project in Mission, TX
Mission, TX – July 13, 2018 —Mission students are getting a taste of innovation and technology thanks to a partnership between SEAD Academy, Mission Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and Texas A&M University Department of Engineering Technology and Industrial Distribution (ETID). Together, the collaborators are participating in the National Science Foundation’s Innovative Technology Experiences for Student (ITEST) program.
The ITEST program aims at promoting interest and knowledge in STEM careers through the use of building automation applications, connected devices and additive manufacturing. The project combines teacher training, community outreach, industry support, community college partnership and summer camp programs hosted by SEAD Academy.
SEAD (Science, Engineering, Art and Design) Academy is a community and economic development project by Advent GX that develops immersive, interdisciplinary programs and classes for students aged 6-16 years old. Through these classes, Advent GX seeks to inspire students to become life-long, self-learners that are equipped to lead, producing lasting change in their community.
After holding the first Smart Home Competition in June 2017 in Bryan, TX, SEAD Academy is extending its reach to Mission, TX to offer the opportunity for junior high school students to engage in authentic engineering design activities related to building automation. Over the course of the week students are challenged to build a 1:10 scale house that includes automatic parts and complies with a specific budget and building codes. This comprehensive track encourages students to be creative and develop problem-solving skills.
Two sessions of The Smart Home Competition will be held at Mission Center for Education and Economic Development from July 9th-July 20th. SEAD Academy intends to return to Mission in 2019.
CONTACT
Marie Marchand, SEAD Academy Manager
979-267-1939
