The public is invited to attend an interactive science and technology showcase where they can engage in hands-on learning exhibits on the life cycle of salmon, the life of a diver, 3D printing, virtual reality and more.

Set for 4-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at the Sequim High cafeteria, 601 N. Sequim Ave., the “Sequim STEM Showcase” will feature Pacific Northwest National Laboratory’s STEM Ambassadors who will demonstrate new resources and technologies available to Sequim students, teachers and school district staff.

STEM Ambassadors are PNNL scientists and engineers from the Laboratory’s main campus in Richland as well as PNNL’s Marine Sciences Laboratory (MSL) on Sequim Bay. They share their research with students, teachers and the general public through school or public talks and the use of interactive, hands-on displays.

Showcase exhibits include:

• Algal Blooms

• Carbon Cycle/Carbon Footprint

• Color of Water

• Digital Galaxy virtual reality

• How to Spy on a Fish

• Life Cycle of Salmon Game

• Life of a Diver

• Measuring Fish

• Microscopy and 3D Printing

• Virtual Reality

• What’s for Lunch?

• 3D Tours of MSL and PNNL/Richland

Sequim school superintendent Gary Neal, along with Kyle Johnson, executive director of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe’s Economic Development Authority, and Jud Virden, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Associate Laboratory Director Energy and Environment, will make some brief introductory remarks.

In April 2018, Battelle provided $50,000 to the Sequim School District, matching a state grant; the combined funds were used to further computer science education for district students ranging from elementary to AP computer science students. Funds were used to purchase technology and curriculum, to create the district’s first-ever computer science laboratory, and to support professional development for certified teaching staff.

Last week, Battelle donated an additional $10,000 to the district for the purchase of virtual reality and 3D technology that will be integrated into the computer science curriculum.

“The challenges we face as a nation today are increasingly complex,” said PNNL Director Steven Ashby. “Armed with a strong STEM education, today’s students will become tomorrow’s innovators who will create solutions to keep our country secure and prosperous.”

PNNL is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy by Battelle. The Marine Sciences Laboratory is the Dept. of Energy’s only marine sciences facility.