STEAM Engine Workshop Ignites Interest in Tech and Innovation

Recently, UAF T3 Alaska alumni and ACEP CyberPod members Petie Deveer and Hailey Hodgins led 25 Bartlett and West High School students through a week-long STEAM Engine workshop focused on makerspace technologies—including Raspberry Pi programming, CAD and 3D printing, and laser cutting. The students are part of TRIO Talent Search program who partnered with T3 Alaska to deliver a multi-day STEAM Engine.

The first session, hosted at the University of Alaska Anchorage, introduced students to Raspberry Pi (RPi) programming. They learned to control mini RPi-powered cars and raced them on a challenging track complete with a suspension bridge and hairpin turns. Navigating the course required students to iterate and test their code, adjusting speed and turning radius. A live leaderboard added excitement to the time-trial competition, and winners took home both great memories and a 3D-printed octopus trophy. “I was surprised to learn that computer science is not just programming, but about problem solving and logical thinking,” said one student.

In the second session, students explored CAD modeling, 3D printing, and laser cutting. One creative participant, completing the “Worm-Off Challenge,” designed a humorous Rottissimo character using Tinkercad. “It was a great group of students to work with—highly engaged and motivated,” said Hodgins. Another student shared, “I’ve tried CAD before, but I never liked it until now!” Students also collaborated on laser-cut triangle designs for a group project. “I was surprised how precise the laser cutter is and how small details actually show up clearly,” another student reflected.

Design thinking and collaboration were emphasized throughout the week. In the Backpack Design Challenge, students interviewed a partner to understand their needs, then created and presented a prototype tailored to them—an exercise in both innovation and communication.

This event was made possible through a partnership with TRIO Programs Director Tamika Dowdy and was supported by staff members Valerie Zeigler, Jessica Delgado, and Jasmine Carter.