Can an event that combines engineering with arts and crafts help find the Sunshine Coast's next generation of science and technology professionals? Get some youth together, arm them with Popsicle sticks, glue and other materials, and we should get our answer.
The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC (APEGBC) will host its annual Popsicle stick bridge-building contest in Sechelt on Sunday, March 20, at the Seaside Centre. Local resident and applied science technologist Scott Tilley is helping organize the event, to recognize this year being marked as the Year of Science in B.C.
Teams will include elementary and secondary school students and post-secondary and professional teams will be competing.
Various prizes will be awarded to each wining team, in their division, for the strongest bridge. Treats will be handed out at the event as well as spot prizes.
When asked about the contest being held in Sechelt this year, Tilley said he was extremely excited about seeing the community participate in it.
"Competitions like this don't require strength; they require skill and thought and a little bit of finesse to really do it well. Engineering really is an art," he said. "I think the science and technology professionals on the Coast are answering the call to get the message out that there are opportunities here and raising the awareness about the choices the next generation has to choose from. The next generation just needs a little help to see the opportunities and advice on how to get there."
For more details, see www.apeg.bc.ca/services/branches/seatosky/popsicle.html.
