TechFest 2013 coming February 16-17

By Mike Monnier (SME, Chapter 18)

Fun event introduces students to the exciting world of technology and advanced manufacturing.

This weekend is TechFest, providing two free days of family fun with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). There are approximately 70 interactive exhibits that give students a chance to meet and talk to STEM professionals and learn about what they do for a living.

In the hand-on exhibits you can talk with practicing professionals, scientists and engineers on a wide variety of topics including life sciences, aviation, meteorology, manufacturing aviation and much more. There are also several presentations running during the day in addition to the exhibits. The topics range from what a test pilot does, to 3D printing, to the science of combustion, and to discussions of historical figures in the world of science. There is truly something for everyone. I strongly encourage you to attend with your children or grandchildren and see what makes this event so exciting.

Naturally, my favorites are the advanced manufacturing displays showcased in Building 13. Here you will find a CNC machining demo sponsored by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and a robotics and welding demo sponsored by the American Welding Society (AWS) and Yaskawa Motoman Robotics. These displays give students a first-hand look at the high tech world of modern manufacturing.

The event is housed in Buildings 12 and 13 on the Sinclair campus. Last year’s event was the largest ever with over 3300 registered students. This is the 11th year for the event which is sponsored by the Affiliate Societies Council of Dayton and hosted by Sinclair Community College.

The hours for TechFest 2013 are:

• Saturday, February 16: 10AM – 6PM
• Sunday, February 17: 11AM – 5PM

Free parking is available in the garage underneath Building 12 (301 W. Fourth St.). Parking is also available in Lot A on 5th Street. You will need to tell the staff at the registration desk in Building 12 if you park in Lot A to get a parking voucher. Please visit the Affiliate Societies Council website (www.ASCdayton.org/TechFest) for more information about TechFest.

I hope to see you there!