SALINAS VALLEY — Chevron, in partnership with the Monterey County Office of Education and the Fab Foundation, recently hosted an afternoon of free hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning at the official launch of the Central Coast Mobile Fab Lab.
“We work to create innovative education programs that position the next generation of problem solvers to tackle the most complex challenges of the future,” said Chevron Public Affairs Representative Andrea Bailey. “Today’s students are tomorrow’s engineers.”
The Oct. 14 event, which took place at the Constitution Soccer Complex in Salinas, also featured food trucks, jump houses, a photo booth, arts and crafts and a live broadcast from KDON radio.
The Central Coast Mobile Fab Lab is a fully equipped maker space on wheels that promotes STEM education and fosters creativity and problem-solving. During the Saturday event, students of all ages had the opportunity to create 3D models and design electronic circuits using a variety of materials, including wood, plastics and metal — all in real-time with just some basic training.
“We are proud to offer a space where the Monterey County community can learn how science, technology and math are connected to everyday life,” said Sherry Lassiter, CEO of the Fab Foundation. “Our hope is that our program inspires curiosity and ignites a passion for design and fabrication.”
Chevron is committed to providing equal access to STEM education, like the Central Coast Mobile Fab Lab, for the people who live in the communities where it operates, including rural areas of Monterey County where students typically don’t have access to these resources.
“The Central Coast Mobile Fab Lab is a wonderful experience for students of all ages and opens the door to unleashing their imagination,” added Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Deneen Guss. “I can’t thank Chevron and the Fab Foundation enough for empowering our students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities.”
In 2019, Chevron partnered with the Fab Foundation and provided funding to bring the Central Coast Mobile Fab Lab to Monterey County, hosted by the Monterey County Office of Education.
For more information about the Central Coast Mobile Fab Lab, visit centralcoastmobilefablab.org.
