Pennsylvania College of Technology, also known as Penn College, is an educational institution affiliated with Penn State, focused on applied education, technology, manufacturing, engineering, health, construction, and technical careers.
Penn College of Technology brought together over 350 high school students during the third annual edition of STEMFest, an event designed to spark interest in careers related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on workshops.
The event took place on May 13, 2026, at Penn College’s main campus in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
Students from a dozen schools in Bradford, Clinton, Lycoming, Northumberland, and Tioga counties participated in sessions led by faculty and staff from the institution.
Non-Destructive Testing Brings Industry into the Classroom
Among the featured activities was an introduction to non-destructive testing, where students observed how weld quality is evaluated using technologies such as X-rays and ultrasound.
This experience demonstrated real-world applications of industrial inspection without damaging the materials being analyzed.
Among the prominent voices is Kathy D. Chesmel, assistant dean of materials science and engineering technology, who emphasized that early exposure to STEM helps students discover interests, strengthen problem-solving skills, and envision high-impact careers.
The presence of NDT within the program reinforced the connection between technical education and industrial sectors that demand trained personnel to ensure safety, quality, and integrity in components, structures, and essential systems.
Robotics and Technology Sparked New Vocations
In addition to non-destructive testing, students participated in workshops on robotics, electronics, construction, concrete science, civil engineering, surgical technology, horticulture, and polymers.
Activities included robot programming, toolbox construction, concrete mixing, bridge design with wooden sticks, and experiments with plastic materials. At STEMFest, university faculty and staff led the workshops to connect students with real-world learning scenarios.
According to Penn College, the purpose of STEMFest is to offer students real experiences that connect creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork with potential technical careers.
STEM Gains Relevance Amid Labor Demand
Kathy D. Chesmel, assistant dean of materials science and engineering technology, noted that students need to know the professional possibilities in STEM because many of the fastest-growing and highest-paying careers are related to these fields.
The event received partial support from a grant from the EQT Foundation, an organization that supports educational and community programs. PlastiVan, a national outreach program of the Society of Plastics Engineers Foundation, also participated, with sponsorship from the SPE Thermoplastic Materials & Foams Division and Sekisui Kydex LLC.
The labor context reinforces this vision. According to data cited by the institution, STEM occupations project higher growth than non-STEM fields, while median annual salaries in these areas far exceed those of other sectors.
Hands-On Experiences to Decide the Future
Teachers who participated in STEMFest highlighted the value of students being able to see, build, test, and create rather than simply listening to presentations.
These experiences, according to collected testimonials, help strengthen confidence, stimulate curiosity, and open new career possibilities.
The university expects to organize STEMFest again next spring, depending on funding availability. With this initiative, Penn College continues to strengthen its role as a bridge between secondary education, technical training, and real industry demands.
Source and photo: https://www.psu.edu