Fifteen educators from across the U.S. have won awards sponsored by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) Education Foundation and 3M .The 2008 "Building the Future Awards" recognize educators for their outstanding efforts in inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math.
The winners all have worked with curriculum developed by Project Lead the Way, a nonprofit organization that promotes pre-engineering courses for middle and high school students. These educators have helped young people become exposed to engineering and manufacturing through hands-on activities, field trips and group projects.
In addition to the Building the Future Award, the SME-EF will present the Outstanding Partner Award to Kathy Sommers. Sommers is the Assistant Director for Career, Technical, and Adult Education at the Ohio Department of Education. At this event she will be acknowledged for her significant work moving the Project Lead the Way program forward in Ohio and setting an example for expansion nation-wide.
"We believe that it is important to recognize the valuable work these educators are doing. By educating today's youth they are truly "Building the Future" for tomorrows leaders and a vibrant workforce," said Bart Aslin, executive director of the SME-EF. "Our children need role models like these adults who are dedicated to showing youth the rewards of technology and science."
