Written by Faryn Ash, STEAM Factory Intern, Class of 2017

On December 9, 2016 the STEAM Factory opened its door for the final Franklinton Friday of 2016! For this festive evening, the space was filled with people who had the option to choose from three fun, innovative, and holiday oriented activities. Participants also had the chance to support local Franklinton residents by bringing warm clothing items for our Holiday Clothing Drive!

All of the activities for the evening had a make-and–take component associated with it.  First, guests had the opportunity to build their own glacier! STEAM member and Byrd Polar Center Education and Outreach Director, Jason Cervenec, spoke with participants about the importance of glaciers and lead them through making their own glaciers that they could keep for themselves.

One of our other activities was a physics/engineering project that both parents and kids loved. With everyday items like popsicle sticks, paper clips and rubber bands guests could build their own propeller cars and even race them once it was finished!

Finally, for those that really enjoy art or simply needed to make some Christmas cards, the STEAM Factory offered a space to “chill” and create art projects. The art station had paint, crayons, card stock and other art supplies so guests could make any creation in their mind a reality.

This Franklinton Friday was a great way to showcase exactly what the STEAM Factory is about. Guests were given the chance to combine their creative side and their academic side with all of these activities! With a room full of smiles on people of all ages, this Franklinton Friday was definitely a success!