STEM Conference

 A unique opportunity for  7th & 8th Grade Students

On April 10, 2018 CESA #12, in conjunction with WITC, Northland College and Bayfield County UW Extension Services, will hold a conference in Ashland relating to careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. This conference will introduce students to careers in those areas as they prepare for their high school class choices and future educational choices.

Agenda

8:45 AM Registration at WITC Conference Center

9:15 AM Opening Session-Keynote Deb Lewis, Ashland Mayor

9:45 AM - 11:20 AM Morning Sessions

11:20 - 11:50 AM Lunch (Pizza will be served at WITC)

12:00 PM – 1:35 PM Afternoon Sessions

1:45 PM Depart for Home

STEM Session Descriptions

• What can you learn from a skull? We will discuss the size, diet, ecology, and evolution of mammals while looking at their skulls. In addition to learning about the mammals of northern Wisconsin, we will examine some species that live in Africa and Australia. We will also talk about how to identify an animal’s skull based on its size and the type of teeth. Presented by Paula Anich, Professor of Biology & Natural Resources. AM Session @ Northland College
• Introduction to Earth Materials and Resources: Students will learn the basics of identifying minerals and rocks by their distinctive physical properties, textures and structures. We will discuss the importance of minerals and rocks as resources for society. We will also look at minerals and rocks under a specialized petrographic microscope. Presented by Tom Fitz, Professor of Geoscience AM Session @ Northland College
• Renewable Energy: This activity presents options for meeting the world’s energy demands through renewable energy sources. Students will have the opportunity to use small generators to power electrical devices and to investigate the operation of a hydrogen fuel cell. Presented by Scott Grinnell, Professor of Physics.  AM Session @ Northland College
• Exploring Plastic: We all use plastic constantly in our lives, but what is plastic and how does it work? Where does it come from and what is its fate when you throw it away or recycle it? In this workshop, you will have hands-on opportunities to explore the science behind plastics. Presented by Nick Robertson, Professor of Chemistry.    PM Session @ Northland College
• What are genetically modified foods?: We will discuss DNA and genes, and learn how genetically modified organisms are made. Students will predict whether everyday foods are made using GMOs and learn how to test them. We will practice using molecular biology lab techniques and analyze results using DNA from real foods. Presented by Alissa Hulstrand, Professor of Biology.   PM Session @ Northland College
• What is in a Forest?: We need healthy forests for producing lumber for homes and fiber for paper. Forests store lots of carbon that can help reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. We will learn how trees grow, and we will figure out how much stuff (like boards for homes and furniture, pieces of paper, and pounds of carbon) is contained in a forest.  Presented by Jonathan Martin, Professor of Forestry, Natural Resources and Ecology. PM Session @ Northland College
• Simulation in Nursing: This session will demonstrate how nursing is now able to utilize classroom simulation to better prepare for their hands on clinical experiences.  This session will talk about the uses of simulation and give a hands-on demonstration. Presented by Mila Halvorson, ADN Instructor WITC AM & PM Sessions @ WITC
• Build a Wind Turbine: Design and build a simple windmill and test to see which design generates the most electricity.  Learn about career in energy conservation. Presented by Ian Meeker, UW- Extension AM & PM Sessions @ WITC
• Machine Tools: Students will be walked through the steps of a part creation from idea to reality.  A breakdown of processes: creating a program, machining simulation, post processing, saving, machine and tooling set-up then finally machining a brass key chain.  Students should have a phone number in mind to engrave on the back of the key chain. Presented by Carl Anderson, Machine Tool Instructor, WITC AM & PM Sessions @ WITC
• Criminal Justice: Students will hear about science in Criminal Justice, including criminal investigations and cyber- crime and investigations. Presented by Scott Moreland, Ashland Police Department AM & PM Sessions @ WITC
• Hydration Survival: You have been stranded on a tropical island. Your only water source is polluted. In order to survive you will have to use materials at hand (found on the island) to build an activated carbon water filter. Hands-on, discovery based activity. Presented by Doug Lipart, UW Extension AM & PM Sessions @ WITC
• Information Technology: We will look at careers in the information technology sector, including programming, repair, system analysts, database administrators and much more.  The fastest growing area for jobs is IT! Presented by Betty Erickson, Ashland School District with Guest Speaker Rene Bylander, WITC AM & PM Sessions @ CESA #12

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 3, 2018

BEFORE REGISTERING FOR THIS WORKSHOP PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE YOUR DISTRICT'S APPROVAL TO ATTEND.

Cancellation Policy:

Any registration cancellation must be received by the registration deadline date stated on the event for a refund to be issued. Persons registering and not in attendance on the day of the session will be charged the full registration fee (substitutions are accepted). CESA 12 reserves the right to cancel any session due to insufficient enrollment. Participants will be notified by email or phone if a cancellation occurs.

Weather conditions:

If a workshop has been canceled due to weather conditions, every effort will be made to reschedule the workshop. Participants will be notified via email through myQuickReg.com if a cancellation occurs. Please make sure all your contact information is correct on myQuickReg.com

Media Disclaimer:

By registering for an event with CESA 12, participants agree to grant CESA 12 and its authorized representative's permission to record digital photos and/or video,(including virtual platforms) of their participation. Participants further agree that any or all of the material photographed may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochure, or other printed materials used to promote CESA 12, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation. If you do not wish to have your photo or image used, please contact the agency assistant listed for the event.

In-person trainings

Other Helpful Hints: Room temperatures vary from one workshop location to another, so bring a jacket or sweater for maximum comfort.

Dietary Disclaimer:

CESA 12 makes every effort to accommodate basic dietary needs such as vegetarian, gluten-free, and basic food allergies. CESA 12 does not assume liability for adverse reactions to food consumed or items one may come into contact with while eating at a CESA 12 event. To better serve our guests with dietary restrictions or allergies, please go into your myQuickReg account and update the special accommodations section. Notice of a special dietary need must be made at the time of your registration.