Students explore STEM studies

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — STEM is a nationwide push to focus more on science, technology, engineering and math field of study and careers.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, by 2020 there is planned to be an increase in STEM jobs anywhere from 16% to 62%. Some of those jobs might end up in the Cape Fear as we see a push for more technology and science based careers. Tuesday, students had a glimpse into STEM.

Blake Bunn, North Brunswick High School biology teacher, said he is trying to reach students early on when it comes to studying science.

“I really feel like as a nation we are struggling with science,” said Bunn. “I feel like the world is becoming so small with everything that we know but it’s so large in what we don’t know.”

Bunn and his students hosted a STEM event, to introduce local students to the world of science.

“STEM is a nationwide drive, to get more kids interested in science, technology, engineering and math,” said Bunn.

This STEM experiment got a bit gooey, as students made some chemicals react and made goop that glows in the dark. Later they made pumpkins explode.

“I really like having an outlet to do science and help younger kids do science, and help other kids my age do science, it’s a lot of fun, and it helps me do my own science,” said senior Ethan Maloy.

And having an outlet for some experimentation and exploration for kids is encouraging to parents like Tabitha Lloyd.

“I don’t really have much of an interest in science myself but i don’t want to hold him back, it does seem that technology is driving, us to a science age so it’s very important that he is exposed to it at an early age,” said Lloyd.

For Bunn what’s important is kids get every opportunity to learn and discover their passion.

“I think it’s great that these kids, a lot of my students are basically investing in this as a career which I’d love to see,” said Bunn.

Bunn said they plan on having more STEM events. The events are open to area youth ages 7 to 15, and it’s free.