Brooklyn kids experiment with engineering this summer

Brooklyn kids interested in engineering can now find a program whose goal is to open doors to that profession right in their own backyard.

On Monday, July 22, it was announced that Brooklyn was chosen as one of the 10 host sites for the Summer Engineering Experience for Kids (SEEK) Academy, developed by the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).

The SEEK Academy is designed to raise underrepresented minority students’ interests in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) as an important step towards potential future careers in engineering.

SEEK children in kindergarten through grade 12 will be participating in multiple diverse, hands-on engineering activities. This year, the participants will be designing and testing miniature cars during a Solar Car Activity to emphasize their “Go Green” efforts.

The Charles Hayden Foundation, whose main goal is to promote the mental, moral and physical development of children and teenagers ages five to 18 living in the New York metropolitan area and the city of Boston, sponsors the program.

NSBE SEEK Director Franklin Moore stated, “We are excited that SEEK has made its debut in New York. The location in Brooklyn is ideal for the introduction of this program that encourages young people to consider engineering as a career option.”

Founded in 1975, the mission of the NSBE – which now has nearly 30,000 members — is to increase the number of culturally responsible black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.

The academy is being held at P.S 5., the Ronald McNair School, located at 820 Hancock Street, from July 22 through August 9.