Hands-On Learning at Baer Field

The annual visit is part of a partnership between the Boys & Girls Clubs and I&M to offer students in grades 4-6 the opportunity to further their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education. Safety – not just around electricity but in all facets of life – is a major theme.

More than a dozen Boys & Girls Clubs participants spent the afternoon at the Fort Wayne training facility, learning about safety as well as careers in the energy industry, the role of line mechanics and more. Highlights of the hands-on activity included walking on the slip simulator, which offers the opportunity to learn best ways to safely walk on ice; going up in a bucket truck; and learning how to use line mechanics' equipment.

"Hands-on learning experiences combined with career opportunities and STEM programs with great partners like Indiana Michigan Power provide our children a well-rounded experience," said Debby Stellwagen, Director of Development and Community Relations for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne. "The kids really enjoy experiences which reinforce what they learn. The I&M partnership is part of our new SPARK (Special Pathways for At Risk Kids) program to expose our members to the many job and career options available after graduation."

"This program offers a fun way for students at an impressionable age to learn more about science, technology, engineering and math," said Kim Sabrosky, I&M Director of External Affairs. "As students develop their focus of interests, we want them to know about the many exciting career possibilities in energy and other STEM fields. And we emphasize how important it is to be aware of safety in all that they do."