Gwinnett Tech’s 4th Annual Science WORKS drew a record attendance of more than 1,000 guests Thursday evening as curious learners of all ages took the opportunity to experience hands-on learning at dozens of interactive stations across campus. Students and adults alike gathered to see first-hand how science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics can be powerful launching pads for many exciting educational and career paths.
Gwinnett Tech President, Dr. D. Glen Cannon shared his enthusiasm for the event saying, “By hosting an Open House and Science Works, we offer the community a great way to open their eyes to the vast number of possible career paths before them – paths they may have never considered. Our goal was to invite the community to spend more time on campus and help students see real-world application for lessons in the classroom. When people can see concepts come to life through real-world application their learning becomes relevant and exciting!”
Gwinnett Tech departments across all disciplines opened their doors and offered exciting behind-the-scenes, hands-on learning experiences that showcased real-life application for each area. Visitors were able to experience a mock surgery, race in a driving simulator, conduct a forensic investigation, find hidden objects via ultrasound, make water boil at room temperature, test stress levels in DNA, build 3D lake cabins, weld without fire, see germs undercover, test their aim in a firearms simulator, create circuits using an ink pen, detect tooth decay with lasers, interact with I-Stan robots, build a blood clot, explore logistics systems with a model train, and much more.
Rebecca Alexander, Vice President of Academic Affairs, said, “This annual open house provides a unique opportunity for everyone in the community to come learn more about high demand careers, earning potentials and Gwinnett Tech’s exceptioinal educational programs that can give students the skills they need to succeed in today’s workplace.”
For Matthew Delfunt, a home schooled student from Gwinnett, the open house could not have come at a better time and been more relevant. He shared, “I’m very interested in diesel mechanics and am excited to have the opportunity to come learn about all of the automotive programs Gwinnett Tech has to offer.” Matthew was super excited to hear the College is launching a new partnership with Mercedes-Benz USA this fall. The Delfunt family is a big fan of Gwinnett Tech and can attest to how the College successfully trains students for real-world jobs. Matthew’s sister graduated from the College recently with a phlebotomy degree and has a great job with the American Red Cross. Matthew’s good friend Casey Sykes came to learn more about taking core college classes at Gwinnett Tech to save money on college tuition.
Julian Starks, a freshman at Peachtree Ridge High School attended with his mom, Ursula Rodriguez, to learn more about courses and career opportunities in education. Julian shared, “People are always telling me that I have a calming voice and I’m great with children. I wanted to come tonight to learn more about career opportunities that might be open to me in the field of education.” Erin Pavik from Norcross High School was excited to get to explore the cosmetology labs, as she dreams to be a hair stylist. She’s very interested in doing dual enrollment next year as part of the College’s Move on When Ready Program.
Lucky for students like Matthew, Casey, Julian and Erin, representatives were on-site to help take the conversation one step further and answer more direct questions about applying, student services, financial aid, Move on When Ready enrollment opportunities and more. It was clear that opportunities abound at Gwinnett Tech for these students and many more. Attendees were excited to receive free t-shirts and enjoy amazing cuisine cooked up by the Gwinnett Tech’s culinary students. Siemens, Gwinnett Medical Center, Georgia United Credit Union, AT&T, Nordson, and Georgia Power were proud corporate sponsors of the evening. The next community event Gwinnett Tech will host will be a Preview Night at their Alpharetta-North Fulton campus on May 31.
To learn more about the upcoming Preview Night and the 140 different degree, diploma and certificate programs offered at Gwinnett Tech, visit GwinnettTech.edu or call 770-962-7580.
In the photos:
Homeschoolers Matthew Delfunt (left) and Casey Sykes (center) stand with Gina Delfunt (right) outside Gwinnett Tech’s automotive technology building eager to talk with program directors about the many career opportunities available for them.
Julian Starks (center) and mom, Ursual Rodriquez (right), talk with Jennifer Roberts (left) from the College’s Early Childhood Care & Education program about courses offered, their experiential teaching style, and the partnerships they have with local schools.
Aspiring hairstylist, Erin Pavik from Norcross High School was excited to get to experience first-hand what it was like to take cosmetology classes at Gwinnett Tech.
