Bloomfield, Clifton Students Get STEM Skills By Repairing Engines

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — A pair of 5th grade classes from Bloomfield and Clifton recently got the chance to learn about internal combustion technology by working on real engines.

Last month, Universal Technical Institute’s (UTI) Bloomfield campus hosted the STEM-inclined students for an activity day. During the event, students worked in pairs to disassemble and reassemble Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engines, with automotive and diesel industry pros guiding their work and offering tips.

The event gave students a hands-on introduction to internal combustion engines and how to work with them, but it also gave them glimpses into a day in the work lives of auto and diesel technicians, and helped them develop communication skills, teamwork abilities and self-confidence.

Bloomfield Councilman Nick Joanow and Bloomfield Board of Education Members Jessica Salinas and Thomas Heaney spoke to students during the event, which was sponsored by Hot Rodders of Tomorrow, Snap-On, Briggs & Stratton and UTI.

“On behalf of the mayor and the rest of the council, we are thrilled to have UTI here in Bloomfield,” said Joanow, a former guidance counselor. “These are wonderful and unique opportunities for these kids, bringing experts from across the country to share their skills and knowledge, and introduce them to this whole other career world that is likely very unfamiliar.”

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“There are still plenty of myths and stigmas about working as a transportation technician and in other ‘hands-on’ STEM jobs,” UTI-Bloomfield Campus President Steve McElfresh said. “A lot of students are unfortunately not even aware these are real fulfilling career options. We speak with parents and guidance counselors about this all the time.”

The UTI Bloomfield STEM Activity Day was part of a larger campaign by the STEM Education Coalition Leadership Council, to provide opportunities for elementary school students to learn about STEM careers and industries.

UTI is a member of the council and supports its initiatives, spokespeople stated.

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Photos: UTI