The next generation of engineers is stepping into a world of opportunity at KJWW Engineering Consultants in Rock Island.
"It gave me an opportunity to see really what I could be doing in the future," said Athena Dinh, 17, a senior at Davenport West High School.
Lessons they bring from their unique classroom at Davenport West. This collaboration is a way to learn the STEM courses: science, technology, engineering and math.
It's a carefully crafted curriculum that transfers textbooks into real-life applications. As part of the Project Lead the Way program, it's a new look at education.
"It really brings out what engineering could be like in the future," said Chance Thomas, 16, a sophomore at Davenport West.
KJWW engineers and staffers inspire and energize their teenage visitors during the Thursday session. There are colorful projects and endless possibilities. These are careers that come with concentration.
"The math and sciences are integral," said Patrice Accola, KJWW's corporate education manager. "That's the foundation for all of the positions."
From the classroom to the office, STEM education is more important than ever. Students are literally engineering a path to a career.
Each stop at the corporate headquarters is another chance to explore. It's also a way to build the Quad Cities' workforce. Young, bright professionals may be able to find jobs close to home.
"What you want to do could possibly change the world," Dinh concluded. "As technology and science advances, really focusing on it helps to progress."
For these students, progressing from education to engineering. It's a path to learning for STEM students.