National STEM Day: ESM Makerspaces Spark Curiosity
In celebration of National STEM Day, we’re spotlighting the power of science, technology, engineering, and math to shape a better future.
Hear from Project Engineer Ronaldo Bazan, P.E., as he shares his insights on the new Eastport-South Manor Central School District makerspaces: vibrant, hands-on learning hubs in two of the district’s elementary school libraries. Ronaldo also reflects on what STEM education means to him and when he first realized that a career in a STEM field was the right fit.
Q: For National STEM Day, we are focusing on the award-winning ESM makerspaces. Tell us about your role. What were you most excited to work on for this project?
A: I was one of the mechanical design engineers that worked on this project. I did the load and ventilation calculations, equipment selections, drafting, etc. This seemed like a simple project, but there was a lot of coordination with other disciplines to fit everything in such a small space. What I was most excited about for this project was being able to work closely with other disciplines for a space that would ultimately support one of our communities.
Q: How do you feel these spaces will impact students who are interested in STEM-based education?
A: This will give them a dedicated space to learn and discover things they otherwise would not be able to. They can learn about robots, coding, and even how to take apart electronics and discover how they work. It will satisfy their curiosity through hands-on activities and exercises.
Q: How did you get involved in STEM as a student? What inspired you to become an engineer?
A: I was always a curious child. I’ve always been interested in math and science and how things work. I knew I wanted to design things when I grew up so it could benefit others, and so they could use it. I knew I wanted to be an engineer since high school and eventually set my sights on mechanical components through hands-on learning. Unfortunately, we did not have a dedicated space for it when I was in middle school and high school, limiting access to this kind of learning.
Q: What advice would you give to students who are interested in pursuing engineering or other STEM careers?
A: Stay curious! Keep asking questions and don’t give up. If you like to be challenged and learn something new every day, this is the career for you.
Q: How does it feel knowing your work is helping inspire the next generation of STEM thinkers?
A: At first, when designing this space, I was not thinking too much about how this would impact the users. I wanted to do a good job regardless and tried my hardest on it, but then I realized how it would impact someone else in the community once I saw it come to life. This made me feel a bit nostalgic. A dedicated space for this kind of learning is very important for every child that wants to learn through STEM.